What is cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses various disorders such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypertension, stroke, and more.
Some key points about cardiovascular disease:
- CVD is the leading cause of death globally - responsible for over 17 million deaths per year. This number is expected to grow to 23.6 million by 2030.
- It affects the heart and blood vessels that supply blood, oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. Disruption in these systems causes heart attacks, chest pain, stroke, and more.
- Major risk factors include smoking, obesity, diabetes, poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. Genetics and age also play a role.
- Common symptoms depend on the specific condition but may include chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heart beats, leg pain, and more.
- Diagnostic tests used to evaluate CVD include blood tests, ECG, stress test, echocardiogram, cardiac CT, and cardiac catheterization among others.
- Treatment aims to manage symptoms, lower the risk of further issues, and improve quality of life. Lifestyle changes, medications, and procedures/surgeries may be utilized.
Some key preventative measures against CVD include:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol
- Controlling conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol
If you have any concerns about cardiovascular disease or its symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional at Harmony Health for proper evaluation and guidance.