- 16 February 2024
EECP Heart care treatment: EECP, or Enhanced External Counter Pulsation, harnesses technology to enhance blood flow and encourage the formation of new blood vessels, all without the need for surgical intervention or pharmaceuticals. This innovative approach reduces reliance on medication and enhances blood circulation to vital organs, including the heart.
Used as a treatment for various conditions such as ischemic stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and ischemic heart disease—among Thailand’s top three fatal illnesses—EECP stands as a groundbreaking medical advancement.
Know in Hindi:
In a study focusing on EECP therapy for erectile dysfunction, findings revealed significant improvements: 70% of participants reported heightened sexual desire, a remarkable 93% increase in genital blood flow, and a substantial 58% enhancement in erection quality.
The heart, a fist-sized organ, plays a pivotal role as the body’s primary pump, circulating blood and delivering oxygen and nutrients to organs. Many ailments, including high blood pressure, stroke, coronary artery blockage, heart failure, and erectile dysfunction, stem from reduced blood flow and the narrowing and hardening of arteries, leading to insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply to vital organs.
These conditions may also arise from arterial stiffness or inflammation occurring anywhere in the body, exacerbating artery constriction or narrowing. Addressing the root cause entails treating the blood vessels, which lie at the crux of these issues.
Enhanced External Counter Pulsation (EECP) is an advanced technology that stimulates blood flow without the need for surgery or medication. It effectively enhances circulation to the heart and organs, aiding in post-sport recovery as well. Widely used and researched in the United States, EECP mimics the body’s response to passive exercise.
External Counter Pulsation (ECP) works by rhythmically compressing an air bag-like device around the legs and hips, facilitating the heart’s pumping action. This process increases blood flow to vital organs, promoting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, reducing inflammation in blood vessels, and supporting natural healing.
Initially developed for patients with ischemic heart disease and heart failure who were ineligible for bypass surgery, EECP has evolved over the past two decades to address various conditions including ischemic stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and sexual dysfunction. This innovative treatment targets the underlying causes of illness or abnormalities in the body, incorporating physical recuperation as a complement to or substitute for traditional exercise regimens.
Who Can Benefit from EECP Treatment?
EECP therapy isn’t limited to individuals with coronary artery disease; it’s also beneficial for those experiencing:
- Individuals seeking to improve sports and exercise performance or reduce fatigue during physical activity.
- Individuals dealing with Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
- Diabetic patients at risk of complications like diabetic ulcers due to reduced peripheral blood circulation or kidney dysfunction.
- Individuals with high blood pressure.
- Individuals who have experienced paralysis from a previous stroke.
Limitation of EECP – EECP Heart care treatment
Despite its effectiveness in stimulating blood flow, EECP treatment should be approached with caution, and individuals are advised to consult their doctor prior to undergoing the therapy. Certain limitations or contraindications apply to specific individuals, including:
- Those who have undergone any surgery within the past six weeks.
- Individuals who have had cardiac catheterization within the last two weeks.
- Individuals with irregular heart rhythms or those who use a Pacemaker, particularly if their heart rhythm interferes with the operation of the EECP machine.
- Those with severe valvular heart disease.
- Individuals with peripheral arterial disease, venous stenosis, or inflammation, as they may be at risk of developing thromboembolism.
- Those with severe hypertension (systolic pressure 180 mmHg and diastolic pressure 110 mmHg), who should prioritize medication management before considering EECP.
- Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications such as Warfarin with an INR greater than 2.5.
- Those whose heart rate falls below 35 beats per minute or exceeds 125 beats per minute.
EECP and Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Sexual dysfunction can stem from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, substance abuse, chronic illnesses, smoking, and alcohol consumption, as well as stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. Abnormalities in blood vessels, particularly prevalent in obese individuals or those with irregular blood sugar and lipid levels, also contribute significantly.
Research indicates that EECP can enhance pelvic blood flow by up to 140% with no reported serious side effects. Following EECP treatment, 70% of subjects experienced improved sexual function. The therapy notably increases genital blood flow by 93% and enhances erection quality by 58%, presenting a promising alternative to conventional treatments.
EECP and Exercise – EECP Heart care treatment
Regular exercise is vital for overall physical and mental well-being, but many individuals face barriers to engaging in physical activity. Lack of exercise can lead to rapid increases in blood pressure and heart rate during exertion, hindering intensive exercise.
EECP elicits physiological changes akin to those induced by regular exercise, such as regulating blood pressure and heart rate increases during physical activity, improving fitness, reducing inflammation, and mitigating muscle fatigue post-exercise. Additionally, it stimulates metabolism and enhances blood and lymphatic circulation, resulting in peripheral vasodilation. These benefits have been observed in both professional athletes and the general population.
To optimize results, EECP treatment should be consistent, akin to regular exercise. Healthy individuals can benefit from the ECP Wellness program thrice weekly (30 minutes per session), while those with underlying conditions may require the ECP Care program 3-5 times weekly (60 minutes per session).
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