Kenichiro Higashi writes:
The most important issue for patient
T to understand is the extreme seriousness of his condition. His pain in
the neck and upper chest indicate not only early atherosclerosis in his
coronary artery as is already diagnosed, but also severe narrowing of the
artery. Besides, he should recognize that he has too many risk factors
of heart problems. These are high blood pressure, heavy smoking, lack of
exercise, and type A personality.
In addition to these obvious risks, he has other considerable factors.
First, it is reported that long-distance runners double "dilating"
capacity of their coronary arteries. Since he used to be a marathon racer,
his coronary artery is expected to increase its capacity. But, he complains
of chest pains in spite of this expectation. Thus, his heart condition
must be rather more severe than expected. Second, his mother died from
heart problems, although she lived well into her sixties. Genetic factors
must not be ignored. He must inherit her constitution. So, he should pay
more attention to his health. Third, he should recognize that he is not
too young, especially in terms of heart problems. Analysis clearly indicates
that middle aged man with heart problems are great in number. Furthermore,
their condition is worse because many of them don't intend to see the doctor
earlier due to their type A personality. Finally, he should realize that
heart disease is clearly concerned with these factors and risks can be
decreased by his attention and effort.
He is strongly suggested to take a rest. It is most important to relieve
his pain first. Use of some drugs may be effective. But, he should not
mistake that his heart is getting well in the short term. He must make
an effort to decrease his risks in the long term. Needless to say, he should
stop smoking. It is also effective to start running again. Time is not
given, make time! He should also pay attention to his blood pressure. Of
course blood pressure directly affects the heart problems. The other reason
is that a patient with high blood pressure cannot be given clot-dissolving
medication. Diet is also important for his health because it affects his
cholesterol level and blood pressure
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