Heart muscle damage can be caused by almost all diseases of the cardiovascular system. Pathological changes in the heart muscle may develop as a result of heart defects, arterial hypertension, and ischemic heart disease. These conditions place excessive strain on the heart, gradually weakening its ability to function properly.
In the case of myocardial infarction—the acute form of ischemic heart disease—necrosis of the heart muscle develops. This occurs when the blood supply to a specific area of the heart is severely reduced or completely blocked, leading to irreversible damage to the affected tissue. In all the cases mentioned above, damage to the heart muscle is considered secondary, as it is a consequence of underlying cardiovascular disorders rather than a primary condition.
When heart defects are present, the heart muscle becomes damaged due to overload caused by excessive pressure or an increased volume of circulating blood. In arterial hypertension, the damage results mainly from prolonged pressure overload, which forces the heart to work harder to pump blood against elevated resistance. In ischemic heart disease, heart muscle damage is the result of reduced blood supply caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries that fail to deliver sufficient oxygen and nutrients to the heart.
What Is the Heart Trying to Tell Us?
Heart failure is generally divided into two main types: chronic and acute.
Chronic heart failure develops gradually, with symptoms appearing slowly over time. At first, the signs may be subtle and easily ignored, but as the condition progresses, they become more pronounced and begin to interfere with daily life.
Acute heart failure, on the other hand, develops suddenly and can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.
Understanding the early signs of heart failure is crucial, as timely intervention can significantly improve quality of life and prevent severe complications.
Symptoms of Chronic Heart Failure
One of the most common symptoms of chronic heart failure is shortness of breath (dyspnea). Initially, it occurs only during physical exertion, such as climbing stairs or walking quickly. However, as the condition worsens, shortness of breath may appear even at rest or during sleep, forcing the person to sit upright to breathe comfortably.
Another frequent symptom is fatigue and general weakness. Activities that once brought pleasure—such as exercise, walking, or even light household chores—may now cause discomfort, exhaustion, and rapid tiredness. This decline in physical endurance is a direct result of the heart’s reduced ability to pump blood efficiently throughout the body.
Swelling of the lower extremities, especially the feet, ankles, and knees, is also a characteristic sign. This swelling occurs due to fluid retention caused by impaired circulation. In severe and long-lasting cases of heart failure, fluid may also accumulate in the abdominal cavity, leading to noticeable abdominal swelling and discomfort.
Patients may also experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Palpitations, skipped beats, or a persistent feeling that the heart is racing can be alarming and often indicate that the heart is struggling to maintain a stable rhythm.
Strengthening the Heart Naturally
Today, we will share a recipe for a natural healing infusion that may help support and strengthen the heart. All the ingredients included in this remedy are natural and have been valued for their beneficial properties for centuries.
While such natural remedies should never replace professional medical treatment, they may serve as a supportive measure when used responsibly and with medical guidance.
Ingredients Needed
Raisins – 5 tablespoons
Lemon peel – 3 tablespoons
Walnuts – 5 tablespoons
Hot water
Preparation and Usage Instructions
First, thoroughly wash the raisins to remove any impurities. Finely chop the lemon peel. Combine the prepared ingredients in a suitable container and pour boiling water over them. Cover the container with a lid and allow the mixture to steep.
The infusion can be consumed warm or at a temperature that is comfortable for you. Drink one-third of a cup three times a day, approximately 30 minutes before meals.
Why Raisins Are Especially Beneficial
Raisins are one of the most beneficial and widely consumed dried fruits. They retain nearly all the valuable properties of fresh grapes, preserving about 70–80% of their vitamins and almost 100% of their microelements.
Raisins are rich in vitamins such as B1, B5, B6, P, PP, and C. They also contain essential minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, cobalt, phosphorus, and iron. In addition, dried grapes contain significant amounts of folic acid, carotene, natural sugars (79.5–87.5%), nitrogen-containing compounds, carbohydrates, and organic acids.
Thanks to this rich composition, raisins act as a powerful antioxidant, helping the body combat oxidative stress. Their beneficial properties have been known since ancient times. Historically, raisins were highly valued for their unique ability to strengthen and calm the nervous system, making them particularly useful during periods of stress and exhaustion.
Health Benefits of Raisins
Raisins are especially beneficial for people who suffer from low blood pressure, anemia, or low hemoglobin levels. Their mineral content supports blood formation and overall vitality.
Doctors often recommend raisins during periods of fever, general weakness, and in cases of heart and kidney diseases. They have also been successfully used as a supportive dietary component in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, lung and bronchial conditions, and metabolic disturbances.
A Balanced Approach to Heart Health
It is important to emphasize that while natural remedies and dietary support can be beneficial, they should always be used as part of a comprehensive approach to heart health. This includes regular medical checkups, adherence to prescribed treatments, a balanced diet, physical activity appropriate to one’s condition, and stress management.
My father-in-law’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of how fragile heart health can be—and how critical timely intervention is. Thanks to proper treatment and care, he was able to recover and regain stability. Supporting the heart through healthy lifestyle choices and natural supplements, when appropriate, can play a meaningful role in maintaining long-term cardiovascular well-being.
