The Impact of Inhalation Aromatherapy on Anxiety in Myocardial Infarction Patients

Apr 10

Introduction

Anxiety is a significant mental health challenge faced by patients with cardiac conditions, particularly those who have experienced a myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack. The prevalence of anxiety in these patients can be as high as 50%, which can adversely affect their quality of life and increase the risk of further cardiac complications. This article explores a study conducted to evaluate the effects of inhalation aromatherapy with lavender on anxiety levels among patients hospitalized for myocardial infarction.

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Iran, CVD is the top cause of death, reflecting a broader global trend. The psychological toll of these diseases is profound, with many patients experiencing anxiety, which can exacerbate their physical health issues. Factors such as the fear of death, uncertainty regarding medical outcomes, and the stress of hospitalization contribute to heightened anxiety levels.

Anxiety triggers physiological responses in the body that can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and overall myocardial oxygen demand, which can lead to severe complications, including arrhythmias and increased mortality post-MI. Thus, effectively managing anxiety in these patients is crucial.

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Objectives of the Study

The primary aim of the study was to assess the potential benefits of inhalation aromatherapy as a non-pharmacological intervention for reducing anxiety in patients who have suffered a myocardial infarction. Given the side effects associated with pharmacological treatments, exploring alternative strategies like aromatherapy is essential.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial involved 68 patients diagnosed with myocardial infarction who were hospitalized in the coronary care units of a teaching hospital in Kashan, Iran. The study was conducted from February to August 2013.

Inclusion Criteria:

Patients ages between 20 and 80 years.
Ability to communicate in Persian.
Confirmed diagnosis of MI.
No previous history of MI or contraindications (e.g., respiratory issues, severe allergies).
Patients must have stable vital signs and a minimum score of 20 on the Spielberger’s State Anxiety Inventory (SSAI) to qualify as experiencing anxiety.

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients requiring resuscitation, those taking tranquilizers, or exhibiting allergies to lavender aroma were excluded from the study.
Participants were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group received inhalation aromatherapy with lavender for 20 minutes, twice daily for two days, while the control group received standard care without aromatherapy.

Results

The study measured anxiety levels before the intervention and twenty minutes after each aromatherapy session using the SSAI. The findings showed that participants in the experimental group reported significantly lower anxiety levels compared to those in the control group after the aromatherapy sessions.

The demographic characteristics and baseline anxiety scores of both groups were similar, indicating that the observed effects were likely due to the aromatherapy intervention itself rather than differences in the patient populations.

Discussion

The results of this study support the hypothesis that inhalation aromatherapy with lavender can effectively reduce anxiety in patients who have experienced a myocardial infarction. Lavender is known for its calming properties, primarily attributed to its active compounds, linalool and linalyl acetate, which have sedative effects on the central nervous system.

The study adds to the body of literature indicating that non-pharmacological interventions can play an essential role in managing anxiety in cardiac patients. Given that traditional pharmacological treatments often come with side effects, this alternative method presents a valuable tool for healthcare providers, especially nurses, in anxiety management.

Conclusion

Inhalation aromatherapy using lavender can significantly reduce anxiety levels in patients recovering from myocardial infarction. This method is not only safe but also easy to implement within clinical settings. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating holistic and complementary approaches to patient care in cardiac rehabilitation.

Healthcare professionals should consider integrating aromatherapy into routine practice to enhance the psychological well-being of patients during their recovery process. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects and potential mechanisms behind the anxiolytic effects of aromatherapy in various patient populations.

References:

Summarization of paper written by Zahra Tagharrobi (Kashan University of Medical Science, Health and Management Nursing, Faculty Member)

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