Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is the leading cause of death globally, accounting for over 17 million deaths per year. The most common types of CVD are coronary artery disease, stroke, hypertension, rheumatic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, and peripheral artery disease.
What causes cardiovascular disease?
There are several risk factors that contribute to CVD, including:
- Non-modifiable risk factors: These cannot be changed, and include age, gender, ethnicity, and family history. Men and older adults have a higher risk of CVD.
- Modifiable risk factors: These can be treated and improved, such as:
- Smoking - A major risk factor that damages blood vessels.
- Physical inactivity - Being sedentary leads to obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.
- Unhealthy diet - Diets high in salt, sugar, saturated fats increase risk.
- High cholesterol - Causes plaque buildup in arteries.
- High blood pressure - Damages artery walls over time.
- Diabetes - Impairs blood vessel function and raises risk of clots.
How is cardiovascular disease diagnosed?
Diagnostic tests for CVD include:
- Medical history - Assess symptoms, family history, risk factors.
- Physical exam - Check blood pressure, heart rate, weight.
- Blood tests - Measure cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) - Records electrical activity of heart.
- Echocardiogram - Uses ultrasound to visualize heart structure.
- Stress test - Monitors heart during exercise.
- Angiogram - Visualizes blood vessels using dye and x-rays.
What are the symptoms of cardiovascular disease?
Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain, tightness, pressure - Shortness of breath - Fatigue, weakness - Lightheadedness, dizziness - Nausea - Irregular heartbeat
Acute events like heart attack or stroke require emergency care. Chronic CVD may have milder or no symptoms at first.
How can cardiovascular disease be prevented?
Lifestyle changes to prevent CVD include:
- Quitting smoking - Exercising 30 minutes most days - Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains - Losing weight if overweight or obese - Managing stress - Limiting alcohol intake - Taking medications as prescribed
For a personalized plan to optimize your heart health, consider contacting *Balance Hormone Center*. Their expert physicians provide cutting-edge hormone therapy to help patients prevent and reverse cardiovascular disease. They offer comprehensive lab testing to identify hormone imbalances contributing to heart issues. With customized treatment plans, Balance Hormone Center can get your cardiovascular system back in balance. Visit www.Balance Hormone Center.com today to learn more and request a consultation.
In summary, cardiovascular disease develops from various genetic and lifestyle factors that damage the heart and blood vessels over time. It can often be prevented or managed through healthy behaviors and getting the right medical care. Paying attention to heart health risk factors and symptoms allows for early detection and treatment. With proper long-term care, people can live full, active lives despite cardiovascular disease.