Acupuncture to Support Cardiovascular Health

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death as we get older. Heart disease increases our risk for death, heart attack, stroke and many other abnormal conditions that involve blood vessels. Although we think of heart disease as mostly a "male" condition, women remain at significant risk (1). Improving our lifestyle, such as engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise, eating well, maintaining optimal weight, improving sleep quality, and maintaining optimal blood pressure, have been shown to reduce heart disease and death.  

In addition, acupuncture, a pillar of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has gained recognition for its potential in supporting cardiovascular health, especially in women who have unique risks and often unexpected symptoms of heart disease (2).

Cardiovascular Disease: A Silent Threat to Women

While the effects of heart disease are universal, women have different risk factors such as the influence of hormones during pregnancy, when taking birth control pills and the transitions that occur in peri-menopause. Also, the symptoms of heart attack may not be the standard "chest pain" as seen with men. Women may be misdiagnosed as having appendicitis, an ovarian cyst problem or other "gyne" issue, when in fact she is having a heart attack. These mistakes can obscure and delay diagnosis and management (3).

Acupuncture: Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Support

So how exactly does Acupuncture help heart disease? Acupuncture has been shown to positively alter our autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system manages things that you don't consciously think about, like your heartbeat, digestion and breathing. In addition to receiving cardiovascular care by your primary care physician, acupuncture can therefore help support other factors that can benefit heart health in more preventive and holistic ways (4).

Navigating High Blood Pressure through Acupuncture

High blood pressure, the strongest risk factor for heart disease has been notably explored with acupuncture. A review by Niu et al. (2019), illustrates potential beneficial modulations in blood pressure following acupuncture, providing a promising preventive approach or supplementary approach with prescribed medications for people with a medical diagnosis of hypertension. Therefore, Acupuncture may benefit younger individuals who may be at higher risk due to their family history of heart disease.

Endothelial Function Enhancement via Acupuncture

Let's look in more detail at how acupuncture can affect blood pressure. Our endothelial cells form the inner lining of our blood vessels. Some of their important roles are helping to regulate molecules that enter and exit the vessels; they control the blood pressure by making the vessels tighten or relax; and they keep the blood flowing smoothly so that forming blood clots is less likely. Research published this year has shown that acupuncture can positively impact endothelial function, thus potentially having a beneficial effect on blood pressure in general (5).

Practical Integration of Acupuncture in Women’s Cardiovascular Care

For women contemplating acupuncture to support their cardiovascular health, initiating therapy with regular acupuncture experiences can be a starting point. Additionally, acupuncture can help address many other systems both emotional and physical that affect our health. It is essential to integrate acupuncture with existing medical care, fostering a multi-disciplinary approach, as well as a woman-centered focus to managing overall health.

Conclusion

Acupuncture potentially offers a supportive adjunct in the holistic management of cardiovascular health in women, aligning ancient practices with contemporary medicine. At Seyhart we are thrilled to support you on the journey to your best health!