Psychocardiology: Recognizing and Addressing the  Profound Impact of Psychosocial Factors on Cardiac  Health

G. H. Bindu Srinivas; Dr. K. Jayashankar Reddy

Volume : III, Issue : VIII, August - 2013

Psychocardiology: Recognizing and Addressing the Profound Impact of Psychosocial Factors on Cardiac Health

G. H. Bindu Srinivas, Dr. K. Jayashankar Reddy

Abstract :

Psycho–Cardiology is one of the fields which is playing a very important role in investigation, management, treatment and therapy for both cardiac and non–cardiac disease and issues related to pain with cardiac and non–cardiac ailments. Psychosocial issues are important variables that need to be addressed in patients with cardiac ailment or issues related to heart disease. Unfortunately, these issues are often overlooked. Depression, anxiety, stress and lack of social support have been shown to have a negative impact on patients. Patients with heart disease who are anxious, stressed , depressed or who lack social support have been shown to have increased morbidity and hospital readmission rates, to be less adherent to their medical regimen, and to have an overall increase in cost of care. The variables are often interrelated, as high levels of social support may lessen the impact of depression on mortality. In addition, certain biologic factors may influence the impact of psychosocial factors in patients. This review addresses the issues related to risk management and addressing the importance of psychological intervention on treatment adherence, and social support in patients with cardiac issues and suggests interventions targeted to these problems. Health care professionals must assess these issues in all patients with cardiac ailment, address their specific needs, and intervene appropriately when warranted.