Coronary artery disease may be reversible

Recent medical research points to the possibility that the build-up of plaque and coronary artery disease can not only be halted but, in some cases, can even be reversed.

Research from several cardiologists and other health professionals gives cautious optimism to those willing to dramatically alter their lifestyle and thinking patterns. Changing to the following regimen can halt or reverse the disease process found in coronary artery disease.

• A rigorously controlled diet, with conspicuous absence of fat.
• A scientifically prescribed and managed exercise program.
• An alteration in certain psychological processes that produce chronic stress.

As a psychologist, I am better versed in the literature relating to the latter of these three health changes. I am particularly interested in what the research and my professional experience points to as the parameters of change and this process of reducing stress.

Chronic stress leads to the overproduction of adrenaline and can cause anxiety, sleep difficulties, elevated heart rate and blood clotting, as well as arterial spasms. This stress also stimulates the production of the steroid cortisol, which is believed to increase the build-up of plaque in arteries, impair the immune system and cause other problems.

A common feature found in individuals experiencing the stress that seems to be correlated with coronary artery disease is chronic hostility. Those suffering from this debilitation hostility show a cynical distrust of others, especially their intentions and motives. Treatment is often done in groups. I share the belief with many other professionals that the development of trust is the key to reducing hostility.

The group leader or facilitator helps group members examine their thinking and the beliefs that give rise to distrust. I have found that these individuals often come from backgrounds where there is a heavy emphasis on competition and control. They have developed strong perfectionistic tendencies and difficulties in dealing with authority figures.

Others describe them as arrogant and self-centered with a strong need to make all the decisions in situations in which they interact. Relationships for them are often difficult, and their suspicions of the motives of others frequently drives people away from them. They frequently lacked the appropriate and healthy role models early in life that help build the trust and the ability to deal with others in healthy relationships.

One of the greatest difficulties they experience is the ability to recognize and admit they have a problem. In fact, they may become defensive and assume an even more guarded posture when others try to help them see their problem.

People with such hostile tendencies are often lonely. Recent research indicates that loneliness leads to chronic stress and illness. Increasing contact with other people and feelings of intimacy and support are helpful in changing these individuals.

As research continues and new breakthroughs emerge in the treatment of coronary artery disease, perhaps more individuals will become interested in different lifestyles and ways of looking at life.

Copyright c 1991 Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D.