1. Introduction
Suchithra, a 63-year-old woman, faced a challenge with her health over the past few years. Four years ago when she started experiencing frequent and unsettling episodes of heart palpitations. Seeking medical help, she underwent an Electrophysiology Study (EPS) operation to address the issue. Initially, the procedure seemed effective, but her symptoms soon returned, disrupting her daily life. A second EPS operation was performed, but it also failed to provide lasting relief.
Feeling helpless and unable to manage her palpitations, Suchithra’s family began exploring alternatives. Her son-in-law, familiar with the holistic and integrative treatments offered at our hospital, recommended she try our facility. At the time of her admission, she was also on medications for thyroid issues and high blood pressure, further complicating her health.
2. Patient Information
Suchithra presented with recurrent episodes of heart palpitations despite undergoing two EPS operations. She was also being treated for thyroid dysfunction and hypertension. Her condition significantly impacted her quality of life, leading her family to seek a comprehensive and integrative approach to her health.
- Chief Complaint: Recurrent heart palpitations despite two EPS operations.
- Associated Conditions:
- Thyroid dysfunction (elevated TSH at 6.09 mIU/L).
- Hypertension.
- Impact on Quality of Life: Significant disruption in daily activities and emotional well-being, prompting the exploration of alternative treatment methods relief but no definitive diagnosis.
S.No | Present medication | Medication (After Treatment) | Mechanism of the drug |
1 | Levothyroxine 50 mcg 1-0-0 | ½-0-0 | Synthetic thyroid hormone replacement. |
2 | Losartan 50 mg (1-0-0) | Tapered | Angiotensin II receptor blocker, reduces blood pressure. |
3 | Atenolol 25 mg (1-0-1) | Tapered | Beta-blocker, controls heart rate and blood pressure. |
4 | Vitamin D3 60,000 IU/week | Maintained at adjusted dose | Regulates calcium and phosphorus levels, supports immunity. |
5 | Calcium 500 mg | Maintained at adjusted dose | Promotes bone health and cellular signaling. |
Levothyroxine 50 mcg (1-0-0), which was tapered to ½-0-0. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement used to regulate thyroid function. She was also prescribed Losartan 50 mg (1-0-0), which was tapered during the course of her treatment. Losartan is an Angiotensin II receptor blocker that helps reduce blood pressure. Additionally, Atenolol 25 mg (1-0-1) was tapered as well. Atenolol is a beta-blocker that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Her Vitamin D3 dosage was maintained at an adjusted dose of 60,000 IU per week, which supports calcium and phosphorus regulation and enhances immune function. Calcium 500 mg was also maintained at an adjusted dose to promote bone health and support cellular signaling.
4. Naturopathic and Lifestyle Interventions
A 22-day tailored treatment plan was implemented, focusing on:
- Natural Therapies: Targeted treatments for cardiovascular and endocrine health.
- Dietary Modifications: Anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense foods to support thyroid and immune function.
- Stress Management: Techniques like yoga and meditation to reduce sympathetic overdrive.
- Supplementation: Corrected deficiencies with Vitamin D3 and calcium.
- Physical Activity: Gradual introduction of cardiovascular and strength exercises.
5. Results and Follow-Up
S.No | PARAMETER | Before Treatment | After treatment |
1 | WBC Count | 3.84 | 4.57 |
2 | Testosterone | <2.5 | 4.08 |
3 | Vitamin D | 17.6 | 150 |
4 | Hs-CRP | 2.1 | 1.83 |
5 | TSH | 6.09 | 5.8 |
Suchithra’s treatment resulted in significant improvements in several key biomarkers. Her WBC count increased from 3.84 to 4.57, enhancing immune function and improving resistance to infections. Testosterone levels rose from <2.5 to 4.08, restoring hormonal balance and vitality. Her Vitamin D levels were significantly elevated from 17.6 to 150, correcting the deficiency and supporting bone health, immunity, and cardiovascular function. Additionally, hs-CRP levels decreased from 2.1 to 1.83, reflecting reduced systemic inflammation and lowering cardiovascular risk. Finally, her TSH improved from 6.09 to 5.8, indicating better thyroid function and overall metabolic balance.
6. Discussion
Suchithra’s case underscores the efficacy of integrative healthcare in addressing complex, multifactorial health issues. Despite conventional medical interventions, her palpitations persisted, affecting her quality of life. Through a comprehensive naturopathic approach, significant improvements were achieved in her immune function, hormonal balance, and overall vitality. This highlights the potential of holistic care in managing conditions that may not respond adequately to conventional methods.
7. Conclusion
The resolution of her palpitations management and improvements in thyroid function demonstrate a positive prognosis, underscoring the importance of a multifaceted approach to treating complex health conditions. Additionally, her hypertension is well-controlled, and her thyroid function has improved significantly, with her TSH levels decreasing to a healthier range, contributing to better metabolic health overall. The holistic and integrative treatments at our hospital appear to have effectively addressed the underlying factors contributing to her symptoms. By targeting not only her heart and thyroid issues but also focusing on stress management and emotional well-being, Suchithra’s health has been restored to a much more stable and balanced state.