|
|
 |
| BOOK REVIEW |
|
| Year : 2013 | Volume
: 138
| Issue : 2 | Page : 277 |
|
Stress proof the heart - Behavioral interventions for cardiac patients
RP Sapru
1112, Sector 7, Panchkula 134 109, Haryana, India
| Date of Web Publication | 3-Sep-2013 |
Correspondence Address:
R P Sapru
1112, Sector 7, Panchkula 134 109, Haryana
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
How to cite this article:
Sapru R P. Stress proof the heart - Behavioral interventions for cardiac patients. Indian J Med Res 2013;138:277 |
Stress proof the heart - Behavioral interventions for cardiac patients, E.A. Dornelas, editor (Springer, Germany) 2012. 408 pages. Price: Not mentioned.
ISBN 978-1-4419-5649-1
This book addresses the issue of psychological problems that are often comorbid in patients with serious heart diseases. It is a compilation of 17 chapters written by various authors: psychiatrists, behavioural scientists, cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and nurses. The thematic emphasis throughout the book is to draw attention to the likely benefits of psychological interventions for improving the quality of life of patients with heart disease, and perhaps also their longevity.
Part I of the book has seven chapters dealing with clinical psychological issues faced by patients of heart disease in different clinical situations. Chapter 6 on Takotsubo Syndrome is of particular interest because of the well-known time relationship of this condition with a recent exposure to an acute psychological stressor.
Part II of the book provides detailed information on outcomes from psychosocial interventions when offered adjunctively with standard medical treatment in patients with heart disease. The case is well made out and various strategies discussed in detail. Chapters on "D" personality, Yoga and relaxation are particularly exhaustive and informative. Chapter 14 draws attention to the emerging concept that utilizes electronic media for psychotherapy.
The title of the book makes one to look for evidence that might suggest a causative linkage between psychosocial stressors and clinical heart disease; however, evidence in support of such a hypothesis remains elusive. The book also does not address the question whether psychiatric or psychosocial infirmities specifically impact heart disease, or are common to all chronic illnesses that threaten longevity and / or quality of life; inevitably these are economically and socially destabilising for any patient. Patients with heart disease are particularly vulnerable especially when life is sustained by devices and every turn is uncertain. Chapter 15 on smoking seems a little out of place since other risk factors for coronary artery disease have not been addressed.
As a resource material for future research, the book is a valuable resource for researchers interested in the subject.
|
Users Online: 1518
Search Pubmed for