During an examination at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, Anh Viet's blood pressure was recorded at 180/100 mmHg, significantly higher than the normal reading below 120/80 mmHg. He was also diagnosed with severe obesity, grade 2 fatty liver, dyslipidemia, and pre-diabetes. Electrocardiogram and echocardiogram results revealed 3/4 mitral valve regurgitation.

Over one year ago, during a routine health check-up, Anh Viet weighed 75 kg and stood 1,7 m tall, classifying him as grade 1 obese. However, his health was stable at that time, and no heart or lung abnormalities were noted.

Dr. Pham Thi Thu Ha, from the Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, explained the underlying cause of Anh Viet's condition. Excessive fat accumulation in the body, particularly visceral fat, increases pressure on the heart and blood vessels. This makes blood pumping difficult, leading to increased vascular resistance and hypertension.

Dr. Ha advises Anh Viet on weight loss. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

According to Dr. Ha, prolonged hypertension forces the heart to work harder to pump blood from the heart into the aorta and to other organs. Over time, this sustained effort can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy and dilation, which affects the structure of the mitral valve, causing mitral valve regurgitation. The combination of hypertension and mitral valve regurgitation significantly increases the risk of heart failure.

Doctors prescribed treatment for Anh Viet's obesity and weight loss, combined with medication for hypertension and mitral valve regurgitation. Dr. Ha advised the patient to reduce 10-15% of his body weight to help stabilize blood pressure and lessen the strain on his blood vessels and cardiovascular system.

Anh Viet's diet incorporated whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat milk, and potassium-rich foods such as spinach, asparagus, salmon, and various beans. Potassium helps mitigate the effects of sodium, contributing to blood pressure control.

The patient was also advised to consume a lower-sodium diet and strictly limit alcohol and stimulants, as these can cause a rapid heart rate. Daily, the patient should maintain 30 minutes of walking or slow jogging, avoiding strenuous exercises.

After three months, Anh Viet lost 14 kg, his blood pressure stabilized, and the mitral valve regurgitation showed no progression. He continues to take medication as prescribed and is working towards his weight loss goal of under 70 kg.

Duc Hanh

*The patient's name has been changed