Cardiac Asthma Treatment

Cardiac asthma treatment focuses on two main aspects: managing the underlying cardiac condition and alleviating respiratory symptoms. The treatment approach may vary depending on the cause and severity of the cardiac disease, and it is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop an individualised treatment plan.

1. Medications:
   a. Diuretics: Diuretic medications like furosemide are commonly prescribed to manage fluid retention and reduce pulmonary congestion. These medications help decrease the workload on the heart and relieve respiratory symptoms.
   b. Beta-Blockers: Beta-blockers may be prescribed to slow the heart rate and reduce the strain on the heart. This can help improve heart function and alleviate respiratory symptoms in some cases.
   c. ACE Inhibitors or ARBs: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are often prescribed to relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and reduce fluid retention. These medications can help improve heart function and relieve symptoms of cardiac asthma.

2. Oxygen Therapy: In cases of severe respiratory distress or low oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen therapy may be administered. This helps improve oxygenation, reduce shortness of breath, and relieve symptoms.

3. Cardiac Rehabilitation: Cardiac rehabilitation programs, which include exercise training, lifestyle modifications, and education, may be recommended to improve cardiovascular fitness and overall heart health. These programs can help manage the underlying cardiac condition and reduce respiratory symptoms.

4. Surgical Interventions: In certain cases where cardiac asthma is caused by structural heart abnormalities or severe heart failure, surgical interventions may be necessary. These may include procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair or replacement, or implantation of a ventricular assist device (VAD) or a cardiac pacemaker.