Introduction: The coronary arteries play a crucial role in supplying oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. However, sometimes, a condition called spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) can occur, causing a sudden disruption of blood flow within the arteries. SCAD is not common, but more and more cases are occurring. In fact, it is the #1 cause of heart attacks in pregnant women, and responsible for a large percentage of premenopausal heart attacks.
In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and NATURAL solutions to prevent 1st SCAD or recurrent SCAD.
Understanding SCAD: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is a condition where a tear or separation occurs within the layers of the coronary artery wall. This tear can create a false lumen, leading to a reduced blood flow or even a complete blockage of the artery.
Risk Factors and Triggers: Mainstream medicine has identified certain risk factors and triggers have been associated with this SCAD. These include:
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal factors, such as pregnancy and the postpartum period, have been linked to an increased risk of SCAD.
Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD): FMD is a rare condition characterized by abnormal development of the arterial walls. SCAD is often associated with FMD.
Connective Tissue Disorders: Certain connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, may increase the risk of SCAD.
Extreme Physical Stress: Intense physical exertion, such as weightlifting or extreme exercise, has been identified as a trigger for SCAD in some cases.
I think the REAL causes are violations of the Natural Heart Doctor method: Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well. More on this in my prevention information.
Symptoms and Diagnosis: The symptoms of SCAD are the same as any other type of heart attack, making it crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort, often described as a sharp or tearing sensation
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- Fatigue
Treatment and Recovery: The treatment approach for SCAD depends on the severity of the condition and the affected arteries. In less severe cases where the dissection is not obstructing blood flow, conservative management may be sufficient. This typically involves close monitoring, medication to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of blood clots, and lifestyle changes to reduce cardiovascular risk factors.
In more severe cases where the blood flow is significantly compromised, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. This can include:
- Angioplasty and Stenting: In this procedure, a tiny balloon is inserted into the artery to widen the narrowed area, and a stent is placed to help keep the artery open.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): CABG may be recommended if multiple arteries are affected or if angioplasty is not feasible. It involves using a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body to bypass the blocked or narrowed artery.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antiplatelet drugs and beta-blockers, may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications.
Preventing Another SCAD Attack
The goal is to make you a different person than the one who had the SCAD event in the first place. I believe, if you are a healthier version of yourself, you can prevent another attack. Let me explain our plan to prevent another SCAD. (For more details on our method, see other areas of the NHD website).
- Eat Well- eat the right foods and avoid the wrong foods. Seafood, grass fed animal products, all organic and gluten free. Avoid artificial ingredients, GMO, and pesticides. Keep alcohol intake low.
- Live Well- sleep, sunshine, movement, avoid chemicals and toxins (MOLD!), holistic oral health and chiropractic care.
- Think Well- self-acceptance/gratitude, purpose, spirituality, connectedness, and security.
Look at the above. Where did you go wrong at the time of the SCAD event? Usually, there were problems in all 3 areas.
4. Test, Don’t Guess- we suggest starting with our Level 2 testing to uncover abnormalities that ultimately can be fixed.
5. Evidence-based Supplements- There are MANY options for supplements that can help. Too many to list here. Sorry. I suggest basing your supplements plan on the results of the Level 2 testing. I can tell you that deficiencies of magnesium, potassium, omega-3, copper etc. can lead to SCAD. But how do you know if it’s mag, potassium, zinc, chromium etc? Need to test. Amino acids like lysine and proline are critical to healthy blood vessels. Are you deficient in one? The other? Neither? Both?
6. Biohacking Strategies- Sauna, red light, Vie Light, Truvaga, IV nutrition, cold laser, Flowpress and so much more.
Conclusion: After a SCAD attack, the goal is NOT to have another one. You can do this by becoming a healthier version of you.
We want to help you. We are the best at what we do. Let’s talk soon.
Grab a free coaching call or schedule a 2nd opinion call with one of our doctors by clicking HERE.
