What is cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses multiple issues including coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypertension (high blood pressure), and stroke.
Some key points about cardiovascular disease:
- CVD is the leading cause of death globally - an estimated 17.9 million people died from CVD in 2016. This number represents 31% of all global deaths.
- There are a range of risk factors for CVD including smoking, diabetes, obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. Genetics and family history can also play a role.
- Many types of CVD can be prevented by addressing risk factors. Leading a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can make a big impact.
- Early detection and treatment of issues like high blood pressure and high cholesterol can also prevent progression to more serious CVD events like heart attack and stroke.
Some of the most common types of cardiovascular disease are:
- Coronary artery (heart) disease: Caused by plaque buildup inside the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This can lead to angina (chest pain) or heart attack.
- Stroke: Occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted due to a clot or bleeding. Stroke denies brain tissue of oxygen causing cell injury and death.
- Heart failure: When the heart cannot pump enough blood and oxygen to meet the body's needs. Shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the arms/legs are common symptoms.
- High blood pressure: The chronic condition where blood pushes against artery walls at an abnormally high pressure over time. Hypertension damages arteries and increases risk for issues like heart attack.
At Hormone Harmony Clinic, our clinicians specialize in cardiovascular health and prevention. We offer cutting-edge testing and treatments to manage risk factors like high cholesterol and metabolic disorders. Contact us today to learn how our individualized programs can reduce your risk of CVD.
The key takeaway regarding cardiovascular disease is that many forms are preventable through lifestyle changes. Even when genetic factors are present, steps like improving one's diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, and managing conditions like diabetes and high BP can go a long way. Early detection is also crucial, so speaking to your doctor about screening based on age and risk profile is advised. Addressing CVD risk factors and maintaining heart health is vital for longevity.