Cardiovascular disease - Optimum Wellness Clinic

What is Cardiovascular Disease?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), sometimes called heart disease, is a broad term encompassing a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It's a major global health concern, responsible for a staggering number of deaths each year. Let's explore what it is and what causes it.

Key Components of the Cardiovascular System

Your cardiovascular system is your body's delivery service. It's comprised of your heart, a powerful muscle pumping blood, and your blood vessels, including arteries (carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart), veins (returning oxygen-poor blood to the heart), and capillaries (tiny vessels where nutrient and gas exchange occurs). CVD occurs when any part of this system malfunctions.

Common Types of CVD

Many types exist, but some of the most prevalent include:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most common type, occurring when plaque builds up inside the arteries supplying blood to the heart, reducing blood flow. This can lead to chest pain (angina), a heart attack (myocardial infarction), or sudden cardiac death.
• Stroke: A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, caused by a blood clot (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Effects range from mild to severe, depending on the blockage's location and size.
• Heart Failure: This doesn't mean the heart stops; rather, it means the heart isn't pumping blood efficiently. This can lead to shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and ankles. While the term sounds serious, it's manageable for many.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Often called the "silent killer" due to its lack of initial symptoms, high blood pressure strains the heart and blood vessels, increasing CVD risk. Regular checkups are crucial for early detection.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): This involves narrowed arteries in the legs and feet, reducing blood flow. Symptoms include leg pain, numbness, and poor wound healing.

Risk Factors for CVD

Many factors increase your risk, including:

• High blood cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Family history
• Unhealthy diet

Protecting Yourself

You can control many risk factors. Healthy lifestyle choices significantly reduce your CVD risk. Eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, and managing diabetes are all key to protecting your heart health. Prevention is better than cure! Schedule regular checkups; your heart deserves the best care.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns.