Heart problems

Heart problems can have age-related causes or be triggered by stress or psychologically difficult situations. In the worst case, there may be an underlying disease-related heart condition.

It is only natural that the heart’s performance slows down in old age after years of hard work. The pumping action of the heart is reduced and the heart’s function is impaired, even in the case of minor everyday activities such as climbing stairs or doing housework. Shortness of breath, heart palpitations, a rapid pulse rate and breathing difficulties can be the consequences of age-related heart Problems. The symptoms of age-related heart problems include rapid fatigue and exhaustion, heart palpitations, a rapid pulse rate and breathing difficulties.

Heart problems can be related to stress and can affect both old and young people. Stress, the hectic pace of daily life and ever-increasing pressure can be triggers for certain heart problems. These are referred to as nerve-related heart problems. Heart palpitations, dizziness, a rapid pulse rate and a feeling of tightness in the chest or nervous agitation can be symptoms of nerve-related heart problems. You may have problems falling asleep or your sleep may be interrupted. Around 20% of the Swiss population suffer from nerve-related heart complaints such as heart palpitations, an abnormal heart rhythm or an irregular heartbeat.

Heart problems may also be caused by illness or have a physical cause. If you experience complaints such as a rapid pulse, heart palpitations or breathing difficulties at rest, for example when sitting down, we recommend that you visit your doctor to establish the reasons for your symptoms.

Herbal tonics are used in decreased cardiac efficiency, which is accompanied by a slight decline in physical performance. Whitethorn is a member of the rose family and is excellent for strengthening the heart. It is recommended to use standardised ready-made preparations to ensure safety and efficacy with regard to dosage. The leaves, flowers and fruit are used. Whitethorn’s effect has been proven in numerous studies on symptoms such as exhaustion, a rapid pulse rate, breathing difficulties, heart palpitations and mild tightness in the chest.

If you experience severe heart problems or complaints at rest, please consult a specialist.

For nerve-related heart problems, whitethorn can be taken in combination with soothing herbal medicines such as passionflower, balm and valerian. Passionflower alleviates anxiety associated with internal tension, irritability and nervousness. Balm has a calming effect on symptoms such as states of agitation, restlessness and nervousness. Valerian soothes and encourages sleep in cases of agitation and nervousness.

If you experience severe heart problems or complaints at rest, please consult a specialist.

In addition to herbal tonics for the heart, there are also a number of synthetic medicines that can be used for heart problems. These include groups of medications called beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics and antiarrhythmics. Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors are used to lower blood pressure. They are effective for heart problems such as high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat. Diuretics are medicines that increase the excretion of water (urine) and prevent water retention in the body. This relieves the heart and lowers blood pressure. Antiarrhythmics are medicines that are used to treat an irregular heartbeat.

• Try to avoid unhealthy, stressful situations.
• Schedule regular physical activity every day, do not smoke and enjoy alcohol only occasionally and in moderation.
• Periods of rest, meditation, reading, yoga and relaxation techniques like autogenic training and biofeedback help deal with stress.
• Talk with family and friends about your problems and emotions; they will be happy to support you.