Cancer patients/survivors are increasingly aware of the connection between cancer treatments and heart health.

 

Some key questions you may ask include:

• How do cancer treatments impact my heart?
  Many patients worry about the potential long-term effects of chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies on their cardiovascular system.

• What symptoms should I watch for that indicate heart problems?
  Concerns include early signs of heart disease, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat.

• Are there specific screenings I should undergo to monitor my heart health?
  Patients often ask whether they should get echocardiograms, stress tests, or other heart screenings before, during, or after treatment.

• Can I make lifestyle changes to reduce my heart risk?
  Diet, exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking are common areas of interest for preventing cardiovascular disease.

• Should I see a specialist like a cardio-oncologist?
  Many patients want to know if they need a heart specialist familiar with the unique risks posed by cancer therapies.

• Are there specific medications that can protect my heart during cancer treatment?

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Some patients inquire about drugs like beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors that might help reduce cardiac side effects.

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Hospitals, research centers, and My Heart Spark P.C. have dedicated cardio-oncology programs to address these concerns.

 

Consulting with an oncologist and a cardiologist early on can help develop a plan to protect heart health while undergoing cancer treatment.​

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1. How Do Cancer Treatments Impact My Heart?

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• Chemotherapy: Some chemotherapy drugs, like doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and others, are known to cause cardiotoxicity, which can damage heart muscle cells, leading to conditions like heart failure or arrhythmias. These risks vary based on the specific drugs, their dosage, and the length of treatment.

• Radiation Therapy: Radiation targeting areas near the heart (such as the chest) can also increase the risk of heart disease by causing damage to blood vessels or heart tissue. This may increase the likelihood of conditions like coronary artery disease years after treatment.

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2. What Symptoms Should I Watch for That Indicate Heart Problems?

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Cancer patients often experience side effects like fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath. However, certain symptoms may signal a potential heart issue:

• Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest may be linked to a heart problem, especially if it feels different from typical treatment-related discomfort.

• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, even when resting, could be a sign of heart failure.

• Swelling in the Legs or Abdomen: Edema, or fluid retention, can occur if the heart is struggling to pump blood effectively.

• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness that doesn't go away with rest can sometimes signal heart issues.

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3. Are There Specific Screenings I Should Undergo to Monitor My Heart Health?

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Monitoring heart health is crucial during and after cancer treatment, especially if the treatment involves drugs or radiation that affect the cardiovascular system:

• Echocardiograms (EKG): These tests use sound waves to create an image of the heart and assess its function.

• Stress Testing: Sometimes cancer patients are advised to undergo stress testing to evaluate how their heart performs under physical activity.

• Blood Tests: Certain biomarkers, such as BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide), can signal heart strain or failure.

• Electrocardiograms (ECG): Monitoring the heart’s electrical activity helps detect irregularities or signs of damage.

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4. Can I Make Lifestyle Changes to Reduce My Heart Risk?

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Adopting heart-healthy habits is one of the best strategies to lower cardiovascular risk:

• Healthy Diet: Emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats (like those from olive oil or nuts) can help protect your heart.

• Exercise: While you may need to adjust based on your treatment schedule and energy levels, staying physically active helps keep your heart strong and improves overall well-being. Speak with your doctor about what exercises are safe for you.

• Stress Management: Managing stress through techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can reduce strain on the heart.

• Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking increases heart disease risk, and alcohol can interfere with some cancer treatments, so it’s important to avoid these where possible.

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5. Should I See a Specialist Like a Cardio-Oncologist?

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A cardio-oncologist is a specialized heart doctor who understands both the cancer treatment process and the risks of heart problems caused by those treatments. If you're undergoing high-risk therapies, such as certain chemotherapy drugs or radiation to the chest, a cardio-oncologist can provide proactive monitoring and personalized recommendations for heart care.

 

6. Are There Specific Medications That Can Protect My Heart During Cancer Treatment?

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For patients undergoing cancer treatments that could affect the heart, certain medications may be used to minimize risks:

• Beta-blockers: These drugs help manage blood pressure and heart rate, reducing the stress on the heart.

• ACE inhibitors: These medications help protect the heart and blood vessels by reducing strain and improving blood flow.

• Statins: If cancer treatment affects cholesterol levels, statins can be prescribed to help manage this risk.

• Diuretics: Used to reduce fluid buildup in the body, diuretics can help ease symptoms of heart failure if they develop.

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7. How Do I Know if I Should Be Referring to a Cardio-Oncology Program?

 

Many healthcare systems, such as My Heart Spark P.C., the University of Miami Health System, and Baptist Health, offer cardio-oncology programs designed specifically for cancer patients. These programs integrate oncologists and cardiologists to monitor heart health before, during, and after cancer treatment. In these programs, patients can receive:

• Collaborative care from heart and cancer specialists.

• Tailored prevention strategies, including medication and lifestyle recommendations.

• Long-term monitoring to detect early signs of heart problems that may arise years after treatment.

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If you're receiving cancer treatments that may increase your heart risk, seeking a referral to a cardio-oncology program may help reduce complications and improve your overall health management.

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