Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses diseases affecting the cardiovascular system, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypertension, stroke, and more.
Some key points about cardiovascular disease:
- Atherosclerosis - This is an accumulation of plaque in the artery walls made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances. It causes arteries to harden and narrow, restricting blood flow. This process underlies many CVDs.
- Risk factors - Smoking, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, family history and more can increase risk for CVD. Managing these can help prevent disease. Lifestyle changes and in some cases, medication, can improve risk factors. The clinicians at Balance & Renew Clinic specialize in personalized care plans to reduce CVD risk.
- Symptoms - Chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in legs when walking, and irregular heart beats can indicate CVD. However, many people with CVD show no signs until they have a heart attack or stroke. Getting regular checkups helps detect issues early.
So what are the most common cardiovascular diseases?
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the buildup of plaque in the heart's arteries, causing them to narrow. This can result in chest pain (angina) and heart attacks. Stenting and bypass surgery can treat blocked arteries.
- A heart attack, also called myocardial infarction, happens when an artery supplying the heart gets completely blocked. Heart muscle begins dying due to lack of oxygen. Emergency care is vital in this situation.
- Stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted by a blocked or burst artery. Strokes require rapid treatment to minimize brain damage.
- High blood pressure (hypertension) makes the heart work harder and can damage arteries. It often has no symptoms so getting blood pressure checked routinely is important.
In summary, cardiovascular disease covers various conditions affecting the heart and circulatory system. Leading a healthy lifestyle along with following the treatment plan provided by your doctor such as the
compassionate and evidence-based care from Balance & Renew Clinic can help prevent and manage many forms of CVD. Let me know if you have any other questions!