Heart disease
Overview
Heart disease, also known as Cardiovascular disease, is a class of diseases that involve the heart or blood vessels. It includes conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), and heart defects you're born with (congenital heart defects), among others. The term "heart disease" is often used interchangeably with "cardiovascular disease." Cardiovascular disease generally refers to conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, chest pain (angina) or stroke.
Types of Heart Disease
There are many different types of heart disease. Some of the most common include:
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease. It is caused by atherosclerosis, a process that involves the hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to the buildup of plaque. This can lead to chest pain, heart attack, or heart failure.
Heart Failure
Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can be due to the heart's inability to pump blood (systolic heart failure) or the heart's inability to fill with blood (diastolic heart failure).
Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Arrhythmias can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fainting, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular heart disease involves damage to or a defect in one of the four heart valves: the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, or pulmonary. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors for heart disease, some of which can be controlled, and others that cannot. These include:
Age
Age is a significant risk factor for heart disease, with the risk increasing as you get older.
Gender
Men are generally at greater risk of heart disease than women. However, women's risk increases after menopause.
Family History
If a close family member has had heart disease, you are at higher risk.
Smoking
Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
Poor Diet
A diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol can raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can damage the heart and coronary arteries, leading to heart disease.
Diabetes
Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
Prevention
While some risk factors for heart disease cannot be controlled, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:
Healthy Diet
Eating a diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars can help prevent heart disease.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
No Smoking
Not smoking can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease.
Regular Check-ups
Regular check-ups can help detect heart disease early and allow for more effective treatment.
Treatment
Treatment for heart disease can vary depending on the type of heart disease you have. It can include lifestyle changes, medication, and possibly surgery.