Cardiovascular pathophysiology from the cardioneural perspective and its clinical applications

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neuroscience
• Psychology

Background:

• Coronary heart disease (CHD) and psychological stress, like depression, are leading causes of morbidity and mortality.
• Managing these conditions in isolation presents significant challenges.
• Recent research highlights the interconnectedness of the heart and brain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardioneural network linking heart disease and psychological stress.
• To discuss non-invasive methods for assessing this network.
• To explore clinical applications and interventions for integrated management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of the cardioneural network.
• Discussion of ambulatory and laboratory-based non-invasive measures.
• Exploration of potential clinical and public health applications.

Main Results:

• The cardioneural network involves the heart, brain, spinal cord, and ganglia.
• Non-invasive measures can assess both psychological stress and heart disease severity.
• Integrated management approaches show transformative potential.

Conclusions:

• An integrated approach to managing CHD and depression is supported by the cardioneural network.
• Non-invasive assessments offer valuable insights into cardioneural health.
• Interventions like exercise and biofeedback show promise for cardioneural health.