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THE SEARLE COMMITMENT






COUPLE EXERCISING



TAKING YOUR HEALTH TO HEART


Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer worldwide. Although 
the medical community, including the pharmaceutical industry, has made 
great strides in developing treatments for a broad range of cardiovascular 
disorders, we still have a long way to go. To this day, no adequate 
treatment exists for acute stroke, which kills millions and leaves many 
more paralyzed each year. Likewise, we're still in search of a long-term 
therapy for congestive heart failure (CHF), which takes the lives of 50 
percent of patients within 5 years of diagnosis.


But good news abounds. Management of high blood pressure, a key risk 
factor for stroke and CHF, is now easier given the extensive number of 
available medications used to create individualized therapy for each patient. 
For some conditions, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), surgery can be 
replaced by drug therapy. When operations are still required, new techniques 
enable higher survival rates and faster recuperation so that patients can 
return to normal lifestyles within a few weeks. Research into risk factors 
has spawned massive educational efforts that have successfully encouraged 
people to smoke less, reduce fat in their diets, and exercise more -- key 
components of heart-healthy lifestyles.


Searle is well-positioned at the forefront of cardiovascular medicine. 
We've made important contributions 
to the treatment of hypertension, CHF, CAD and arrhythmia. We're also well 
into the development of new medications 
for stroke and other conditions, and continue to improve our existing product 
lines in innovative ways.  For example, we are pioneers in 
"chronotherapy" 
— offering a new formulation that enables people with heart disease to take 
medication that reaches maximum concentration at the time of day 
when blood pressure and heart rate are typically at their fastest rate of
increase. 



Heart disease refers to several conditions that affect the heart; these include congenital heart defects, arrhythmias (heart rhythm problems), coronary artery disease and blood vessel diseases. Cardiovascular disease refers to conditions that cause blocked or narrowed blood vessels which can lead to stroke, angina (chest pain) or heart attack. Heart disease and Cardiovascular disease are often used interchangeably. The majority of heart diseases can be treated or prevented with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. 


Symptoms

Heart disease symptoms will vary depending on the condition and whether the patient is male or female. For example, women are more likely to suffer from extreme tiredness, nausea, and shortness of breath, whereas men experience chest pains. However, in general, typical symptoms of heart disease include:

•    Chest discomfort

•    Chest pressure

•    Chest tightness

•    Chest pain

•    Shortness of breath

•    Numbness, pain or weakness in the parts of the body with narrowed blood vessels

•    Pain in the back, upper abdomen, throat, jaw, and neck

Sufferers are not often diagnosed with cardiovascular disease until they have a stroke, heart attack or heart failure. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any symptoms of cardiovascular disease and report them to a doctor immediately. Cardiovascular disease can be detected early and preventative measures taken with regular health check-ups. 


Treatment

Tribulus terrestris is commonly known for its men’s health and testosterone level benefits. However, it is also known to benefit the cardiovascular system. It is a small leafy plant native to the sub-Himalayan forests of Burma, India and several other countries. Traditional Chinese medicine has always used tribulus for its vasculature and heart benefits. But there are also several other tribulus terrestris health benefits Studies have found that due to its high level of antioxidants and its constituent tribulosin, it protects the body against reperfusion and ischemia-induced cardiac damage. It also increases free radical scavenging activity which protects against hypoxia-induced cell damage. Medical experts recommend taking between 85 to 250mg mixed in juice or milk three times per a day with meals. 


Prevention

Fortunately, heart and cardiovascular disease are preventable; there are several things one can do to prevent it. These include the following:


Exercise:
 Regular exercise will strengthen the heart and improve circulation. It also helps to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and maintain a healthy weight. 


Limit alcohol:
 Consuming a lot of alcohol will increase blood pressure. Alcohol is also high in calories which will lead to weight gain. High blood pressure and excess weight both increase the risk of heart disease.


No smoking:
 Smoking raises blood pressure and increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. People who smoke should stop, and those who don’t, shouldn’t start. 


Stress reduction:
 Cortisol is referred to as the stress hormone, it Is released into the bloodstream when the body is under pressure. A small amount is healthy because it activates the fight or flight response to protect human beings from danger. However, too much cortisol as a result of constant stress and worry can lead to heart disease. 


Conclusion

Heart health is essential to a long life; it is vital that one is consistent with a healthy diet and exercise as well as avoiding destructive lifestyle habits to avoid falling victim to heart disease.



 










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For more info on these stories, contact Kristin Fayer (krfaye@searle.monsanto.com) at (847) 470-6728 or Jack Domeischel (jrdome@searle.monsanto.com) at (847) 470-6720.


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