Living With Keshan Disease
The individual should talk to their doctor if their symptoms worsen- it is extremely important to visit a doctor, to prevent any major complications of this condition.
Avoid alcohol - avoid all alcohol during the duration of the illness, because alcohol puts pressure on an individuals heart, which is already having enough difficulty, (and body) and can make the symptoms worse Foods rich in selenium - eat foods rich in selenium to help the individuals heart heal more quickly (in addition to any supplements they may also be taking).
Healthier diet -eat healthy fresh, unprocessed foods, with lots of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds and some fish and lean meat to provide more vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants which can all help your heart. A diet lower in saturated fats and processed (junk) foods is also an excellent idea to give yourself a more healthy heart. Monitor side effects to medications - if the individual is prescribed any type of medication(s), it may be helpful if the individual can monitor any side effects they have (if they are present) and see their doctor if the side effects are more than just the mildly common ones.
Rest - sleep as much as possible, because the individuals heart is not functioning as well as normal and your body needs all its energy to get healthy. In the case of mild Keshan's disease caused by a viral agent, the individuals doctor will advise them to have complete rest (and adequate fluids) for a specific period to help their body's immune system fight the viral infection and heal.
Supplements - an individual will most likely be prescribed selenium supplements (in the form of selenomethionine) or have injections of this mineral, so it would be helpful if they could take their supplements at the same time each day, to prevent forgetting a dose.
Surgery - if surgery has been advised (implants, stents or full heart transplant) the individual cardiac specialist will advise you about the pre- and post-operative care that they will need to undergo and how to best take care of themselves during this time, to avoid complications or worsening of any symptoms or health.
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