Broken-heart syndrome mimics attack
DR. PETER GOTT
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Published: June 30, 2009
DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. What can you tell me about this condition? What might I expect in the future? My doctor has put me on two medicines: Coumadin and Coreg.
DEAR READER: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as stress cardiomyopathy, broken-heart syndrome, apical ballooning syndrome and stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is a fairly complex condition.
It mimics a heart attack or acute coronary syndrome. It is frequently brought on by acute medical illness or intense physical or emotional stress (such as that caused by the death of a loved one, hence the name broken-heart syndrome). It is more common in women than in men.
It is not known how prevalent this condition is because little is known about it. It was initially thought to be uncommon, but recent studies suggest it may account for up to 2 percent acute coronary syndrome events.
It is a transient disorder, meaning that it comes and goes. It is managed primarily with supportive therapy such as stress reduction.
Treatment during the acute phase of the attack usually lasts one to four weeks and consists of ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, diuretics and/or aspirin. Because Takotsubo can recur, long-term treatment with beta- or alpha- and beta-blockers may be continued.
Speak with your cardiologist about any further questions. He or she is your best resource for information. It may also be in your best interest to be under the care of a cardiologist familiar with the disorder or to have your doctor initiate regular communication with such a physician. This will provide you with any new information or treatment options.
I am sending you a copy of my health report "Coronary Artery Disease.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, business-size envelope and a check or money order for $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
DEAR DR. GOTT: My sister and I have tried your banana-peel cure for psoriasis. We both have tried various medicines over many years, and none have worked.
After applying the peel once in the morning and again at night, we both noticed remarkable improvement. It only took three or four days. Now, my rough, bleeding elbows are clear and soft. For maintenance, my sister and I continue to apply the peel every three days.
DEAR READER: I have received many letters from patients whose psoriasis or eczema either disappeared or improved with the banana-peel therapy. The treatment is safe, inexpensive and easily available.
Since I mentioned this remedy, readers have written with other home remedies for psoriasis, eczema and many other conditions. I turned all these suggestions into a health report and have just recently had to create a second compilation for the multitude of new remedies.
I am sending you copies of my health reports "Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies” and "More Compelling Home Remedies.” Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed, stamped, business-size envelope and a check or money order for $2 per report to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title(s).
Send questions for
Dr. Peter Gott in care of
United Media, 200 Madison Ave., 4th floor,
New York, NY 10016. A retired physician, Gott is author of "Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Diet” and "Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook,” available at most bookstores.
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