Understanding & Preventing Cardiovascular Disease
- Tara Ly
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a collective term for conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death globally, but lifestyle changes can prevent many of its forms. CVD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits called plaques build up inside the arteries, restricting blood flow and raising the risk of heart attack or stroke.
COMMON TYPES OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Coronary heart disease: Caused by plaque build-up in the heart's arteries, which can lead to angina (chest pain) or a heart attack.
Stroke: Occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, either by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (haemorrhagic stroke).
Heart failure: A progressive condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Affects the arteries supplying blood to the limbs, most commonly the legs and feet.
Arrhythmias: Irregular or abnormal heart rhythms caused by issues with the heart's electrical system.
KEY RISK FACTORS
Risk factors for CVD can be divided into two main categories: modifiable and non-modifiable.
Modifiable (changeable) risk factors:
High blood pressure: Forces the heart to work harder, which can enlarge and weaken it over time.
High cholesterol: Elevated levels of "bad" (LDL) cholesterol can contribute to plaque formation in arteries.
Tobacco use: Smoking and other tobacco use damage blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart.
Obesity: Excess weight increases the risk of other conditions that contribute to CVD, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of heart disease.
Poor diet: Diets high in saturated fat, salt, and sugar can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Can raise blood pressure and contribute to weight gain.
Non-modifiable risk factors:
Age: The risk of CVD increases with age.
Family history: A family history of heart disease can increase an individual's risk.
Sex: Men are generally at a higher risk than women, although a woman's risk increases after menopause.
Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups have a higher risk of developing CVD.
SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR
Symptoms vary depending on the specific condition, but common signs of heart-related issues include:
Chest pain, pressure, or tightness (angina)
Shortness of breath
Pain radiating to the arms, jaw, neck, or back.
Nausea, fatigue, or dizziness
Irregular heartbeats
Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs
If you or someone you know experiences a sudden onset of chest pain, shortness of breath, or other severe symptoms, seek immediate emergency medical care.
TREATMENT & PREVENTION
Management of CVD often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, medical procedures.
Lifestyle modifications:
Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting saturated fats, salt, and sugar.
Engage in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Quit smoking and avoid second hand smoke exposure.
Manage a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
Limit alcohol intake.
Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as exercise, meditation, or relaxation techniques.
Medical interventions:
Medications: Can be prescribed to control blood pressure, manage cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar.
Procedures: For advanced cases, procedures like angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow.
Regular health screenings: High blood pressure and cholesterol often have no symptoms, so regular check-up's are crucial for early detection and management.
THE PATH FORWARD
While CVD presents a significant health challenge, taking a proactive approach to risk management can significantly improve outcomes. By understanding the disease, recognising the risks, and adopting heart-healthy habits, individuals can take powerful steps toward preventing and managing cardiovascular disease, leading to a longer, healthier life.
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