Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD)

Causes and Risk Factors of IHD

The development of ischemic heart disease is promoted by the following factors:

• smoking;

• high blood pressure;

• high blood cholesterol levels;

• diabetes mellitus;

• obesity and a sedentary lifestyle;

• chronic stress;

• hereditary predisposition.

The more risk factors a patient has, the higher the likelihood of developing the disease.

Symptoms of Ischemic Heart Disease

IHD can manifest in various forms, each with its own clinical signs. The most common symptoms include:

• chest pain or discomfort (angina);

• shortness of breath during physical exertion;

• a feeling of tightness in the heart area;

• increased heart rate;

• fatigue;

• dizziness or fainting.

In cases of unstable angina and other acute forms of IHD, symptoms intensify and require urgent medical care.

Classification of Ischemic Heart Disease

Ischemic heart disease is classified into several clinical forms:

• silent ischemia;

• stable angina;

• unstable angina;

• myocardial infarction;

• post-infarction cardiosclerosis;

• sudden coronary death.

Each form requires an individualized approach to diagnosis and therapy.

Complications of Ischemic Heart Disease

Acute Complications

• myocardial infarction;

• sudden cardiac death;

• acute heart failure;

• arrhythmias, including ventricular fibrillation.

Chronic Complications

• chronic heart failure;

• post-infarction cardiosclerosis;

• rhythm and conduction disturbances.

Complications reduce quality of life and increase the risk of disability and death.

Diagnosis of Ischemic Heart Disease

The diagnosis of IHD involves a comprehensive approach using clinical, laboratory, and instrumental methods.

Gold Standard Tests

• resting and stress ECG;

• 24-hour ECG monitoring;

• echocardiography;

• coronary angiography (the main method for visualizing arteries);

• myocardial scintigraphy;

• blood tests for lipid profile and ischemia markers. 

Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease

Treatment aims to eliminate ischemia, prevent complications, and prolong life.

Conservative Treatment

• administration of anti-anginal drugs (nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers);

• use of anticoagulants and antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel);

• regulation of blood pressure and cholesterol levels;

• drug therapy for comorbid conditions.

Surgical Treatment

If medication is insufficient, the following procedures are used:

• coronary stenting;

• coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG);

• reconstructive arterial surgeries;

• use of minimally invasive techniques in specialized centers. 

Prevention of Ischemic Heart Disease

To reduce the risk of IHD, it is important to follow these recommendations:

• quit smoking;

• monitor blood pressure levels;

• control body weight and cholesterol levels;

• maintain an active physical lifestyle;

• eat a balanced diet;

• avoid stress and observe a proper work-rest schedule.

Rehabilitation After IHD Treatment

Rehabilitation helps restore physical activity, improve psychological well-being, and prevent recurrence.

• supervised exercise load control;

• physiotherapy and breathing exercises;

• cardio training and therapeutic physical activity;

• lifestyle changes and giving up bad habits;

• diet limiting saturated fats and salt;

• psychological support.

Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease in Russia

In Russia, patients have access to both public vascular centers and private clinics. Modern facilities are equipped for diagnostics, conservative therapy, and surgical interventions.

Clinics 

• Almazov National Medical Research Center (St. Petersburg) — a federal center offering a full cycle of IHD diagnostics and treatment.

• MEDSI — a multidisciplinary network with cardiology hospitals in Moscow and other regions.

• EMC (European Medical Center) — a private clinic specializing in stenting and complex case therapy.

Cost

The cost of ischemic heart disease treatment in Russia depends on the scope of diagnostics, treatment methods, and clinic status. On average:

• Cardiologist consultation — from $30;

• Diagnostic package (ECG, EchoCG, Holter) — from $90;

• Stenting — from $1900;

• Coronary artery bypass grafting — from $3800. 

MARUS Assistance

The MARUS platform helps patients find a clinic for treating ischemic heart disease in Russia, arrange appointments with leading specialists, gather medical documents, and receive personalized support at every stage of treatment and rehabilitation. It is convenient, safe, and time-saving.