ECP therapy, also known as external counter pulsation therapy, has helped many individuals in Gainesville, FL who are battling with heart disease. One of the unfortunate side effects of heart disease is an inability to supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This is why many people with heart disease experience heart pain or angina.
ECP is an exciting treatment that many cardiologists are turning to. This treatment has helped people who have been unable to live an active life or enjoy their life because of heart disease. It has given heart disease sufferers a level of hope that they did not have before. It is surprising the number of people who are able to go back to a full and exciting lifestyle after this treatment.
ECP therapy requires a person to dedicate 35 days, one hour a day, to treatment. Treatment is usually offered over the course of multiple weeks. To benefit from the treatment, a person cannot miss one day of the treatment. However, individuals who might not benefit from a bypass surgery or are still experiencing angina pain, even though they are taking medications, could benefit from this therapy.
So, how does ECP therapy work? ECP therapy is a fairly simple procedure that is designed to increase the amount of blood flow traveling through the coronary arteries and into the heart. It’s important to note that this therapy is not a treatment for heart disease, nor will it clear up blockages in the arteries. What it does is encourage your heart to create a number of collateral blood vessels. These collateral blood vessels are alternative ways for oxygenated blood to get to the heart.
Many individuals in Gainesville, FL who have this therapy done find relief from chest pain. Some are able to either decrease the amount of medication they take or stop using heart medication altogether. After therapy, many individuals comment that they are able to exercise more vigorously and for longer periods of time. They are able to engage in their daily activities without being tired or out of breath.
Are you dealing with heart disease? Is chest pain and/or shortness of breath making it difficult for you to go about your everyday activities? If so, ECP therapy may be the right treatment option for you. Make an appointment at the office of Dr. James DeStephens in Gainesville, FL to find out for sure. Contact us today to book your consultation!
