Cardiovascular Disease CVD

 

A group of illnesses that affect the heart or blood vessels is referred to as cardiovascular diseases (CVD). These illnesses are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally and a major global health concern. There are numerous varieties of cardiovascular diseases, and each has unique risk factors, signs, and consequences. Among the prevalent heart conditions are:

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

• CAD is the most common type of heart disease
• It happens when plaque, or deposits of fat and cholesterol, accumulates on the walls of the coronary arteries, narrowing or clogging the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle.
• Breathlessness, angina (chest pain), and, in extreme situations, a heart attack are possible symptoms.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

• When a portion of the heart muscle's blood supply is cut off, the muscle tissue may be harmed or even die, which is what happens during a heart attack.
• Chest pain or discomfort, sweating, nausea, dyspnea, and pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach are some of the possible symptoms.
• When there is a disruption in blood flow to the brain, it can be caused by bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke) or blockage (ischemic stroke).
• Abrupt facial, arm, or leg numbness or weakness, disorientation, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and difficulty walking are all possible signs of a stroke.

Heart Problems

• When the heart cannot adequately pump blood, the body does not receive enough blood to meet its needs. This condition is known as heart failure.
• Weariness, breathing difficulties, ankle and leg edoema, and chronic coughing or wheezing are possible symptoms.

An elevated blood pressure, or hypertension

The disease known as hypertension is characterised by a persistently high blood pressure against the arterial walls.

Numerous complications, such as kidney issues, heart disease, and stroke, may result from it.

Due to its tendency to remain symptomless until it reaches a severe stage, hypertension is frequently referred to as the "silent killer".

PAD, or peripheral artery disease

• PAD is caused by a narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, usually in the legs, that are not part of the heart or brain.
• Leg pain, numbness, or weakness are possible symptoms, particularly when exercising.

Heart rhythms

• Unusual heartbeats, known as arrhythmias, can be uneven, too fast (tachycardia), or too slow (brachycardia).
• They may result in symptoms like heart palpitations, lightheadedness, fainting, and discomfort in the chest.

Heart Valve Disease

• Damage or abnormalities in the heart valves impair the heart's ability to pump blood, which is known as valvular heart disease.
• Leg swelling, exhaustion, chest pain, and dyspnea are possible symptoms.

Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease:

• Modifiable Risk Factors:

  • Unhealthy diet
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Tobacco use
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol

• Non-modifiable Risk Factors:Age

1. Gender
2. Family history
3. Ethnicity

Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease

Medication, lifestyle changes (good food, regular exercise, quitting smoking), and, in certain situations, surgical procedures are the preventive measures and management strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Early risk factor detection and management depend on routine medical exams as well as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar monitoring.

To manage and lower their risk of cardiovascular diseases, people should be conscious of their cardiovascular health, live a heart-healthy lifestyle, and collaborate closely with medical professionals.