Myocarditis
By Dr. Val & Noeline
Also known as Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy, myocarditis is an inflammatory condition of the heart muscles. It can be caused by viral infection, a drug reaction, toxins, or another inflammatory condition such as autoimmune disease. Myocarditis can cause irregular/abnormal heart rhythm and can lead to sudden death. The symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, and/or fatigue can be vague at the beginning and become more severe if not treated.
Conventional Medical
"There is no curative treatment for myocarditis" according to standard medical knowledge. Treatments usually include blood pressure medications, beta-blockers to control the arrhythmias, diuretics, corticosteroids, and antibiotics or anti-viral medications. Recovery is possible, depending on severity of damage, but it can reoccur. Standard tests include physical exam, lab tests, ECG (electrocardiogram) and CT or MRI scans. Blood tests will usually include CBC with differential, serial cardiac enzymes, lipid panel, CMP/SMAC (blood chemistry), PT/PTT, D-dimer, FDP. Radiologic tests may include a chest X-ray, CTscan or MRI, Cardiac Angiogram.
Alternative Medical
Evaluations as noted above are ordered. Because myocarditis is an inflammatory process, standard alternative treatments include natural anti-inflammatory substances such as turmeric (Curcuma longa), frankincense (Boswellia serrata), nettles (Urtica dioca), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous), calendula (Calendula officinalis), cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa), bromelain and rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea). Since it can be caused by viral infection, anti-viral herbs may also be used, such as astragalus, reishi mushroom, and shenmai. There are too many other anti-viral botanical medicines to mention here but those are the most commonly used by alternative practitioners. There are also several herbs that may be given to control arrythmias and blood pressure (not mentioned here due to their toxic nature, requiring monitoring by a physician). Acupuncture can help to restore proper energy flow. Supplements such as CoQ10 (CoEnzyme Q10), Alpha-lipoic acid, and Hawthorn berry (Cratageous oxycantha) help support and protect the heart.
Homeopathy and Pleomorphic products can also be used, with quite powerful results. The homeopathic remedy Buthotus Tamulus V21 (red scorpion) has been found to be very effective in relieving the symptoms of Myocarditis. However, it is advised to contact a homeopath to oversee the dosage and protocol for best, safest effect.
(C) 2021 Dr. Valerie Olmsted All Rights Reserved Worldwide
