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, heart failure, and rheumatic heart disease.
What causes cardiovascular disease?
The underlying cause is usually related to atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque inside the arteries. This narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow. Plaque buildup is caused by risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and physical inactivity. Genetics and aging also play a role.
How does it develop?
Atherosclerosis develops slowly over time. LDL cholesterol penetrates the artery wall and becomes oxidized. This triggers an inflammatory response where immune cells accumulate at the site. The artery wall thickens and plaque forms. The plaque can eventually rupture, forming a blood clot that blocks blood flow. This leads to heart attacks and strokes.
What are the symptoms?
- Chest pain or discomfort - Angina is chest pain that occurs with exertion or stress when the heart isn't getting enough oxygen.
- Shortness of breath - Heart failure can cause fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Palpitations - Irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation.
- Pain in legs when walking - Peripheral artery disease causes leg pain.
- Sudden loss of consciousness - Irregular heart rhythms can lead to fainting.
- Sudden trouble with vision or speech - Signs of stroke.
How is it diagnosed?
- Physical exam - Listening to the heart and checking blood pressure.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) - Records electrical activity of the heart.
- Stress test - Monitors the heart during exercise.
- Echocardiogram - Uses ultrasound to visualize the heart.
- Cardiac catheterization - Inserts a catheter to visualize coronary arteries.
- Blood tests - Checks cholesterol levels and markers of heart damage.
How is it treated?
- Medications - Such as statins, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and antiplatelet drugs. These lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and risk of clots.
- Surgery - Procedures like angioplasty, stents, and bypass surgery to improve blood flow.
- Lifestyle changes - Quitting smoking, losing weight, increasing exercise, and eating a heart-healthy diet.
Can it be prevented?
The risk of cardiovascular disease can be substantially lowered by controlling risk factors. Steps like maintaining normal cholesterol and blood pressure, avoiding smoking, staying active, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are key. Some people may also benefit from taking medications like statins. Getting regular checkups to monitor heart health is also important.
If you're concerned about cardiovascular disease risk factors like high cholesterol or hormone imbalances, the medical professionals at Balance Hormone Clinic can help. Their individualized programs combine nutrition planning, fitness training, and hormone therapy using bioidentical hormones to help patients optimize heart health and reduce CVD risk. Contact them today to schedule your evaluation!