THE IMPACT OF YIXIN TANG ON CARDIAC FUNCTION AND INFLAMMATORY MARKERS IN ATHLETES WITH STABLE ANGINA PECTORIS DUE TO CORONARY HEART DISEASE

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Yixin decoction on cardiac function and inflammatory markers, specifically high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), in athletes with stable angina pectoris due to coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods: A total of 140 athletes diagnosed with stable angina pectoris of CHD were randomly assigned to two groups from January 2021 to December 2022. The control group received conventional western medical treatment, while the study group was treated with Yixin decoction in addition to standard care. Changes in cardiac function classification, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, levels of homocysteine (HCY) and hs-CRP, nitroglycerin usage, and overall therapeutic efficacy were compared between the two groups. Results: After treatment, the study group showed a higher proportion of athletes with improved cardiac function (more in Class I, fewer in Class III) compared to the control group (P < 0.05). TCM syndrome scores, including fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitation, and chest pain, were significantly lower in the study group (P < 0.05). Levels of HCY and hs-CRP were also reduced in the study group post-treatment (P < 0.05). Nitroglycerin usage was significantly lower in the study group after both 4 and 8 weeks of treatment (P < 0.05). The overall therapeutic effect in the study group was superior to that of the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Yixin decoction, in conjunction with conventional western medicine, can significantly improve cardiac function, reduce symptoms of stable angina, lower hs-CRP levels, and reduce nitroglycerin usage in athletes with CHD. This treatment approach shows promise for clinical use, particularly for athlete populations, enhancing both recovery and performance.