What is heart disease?
Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is a broad term that includes conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death worldwide.
What are the symptoms of heart disease?
Symptoms can vary depending on the specific condition, but may include:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Pain in the jaw, neck, or shoulder
Who can suffer from heart disease?
Anyone can get heart disease, but certain factors increase your risk, such as:
• Age
• Family history
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Stress
What are the types of heart disease?
• There are many types of heart disease, including:
• Coronary artery disease (CAD): Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
• Heart attack: Occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked.
• Stroke: Occurs when blood flow to the brain is obstructed.
• Heart failure: A condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
• Arrhythmia: Irregular heart rhythms.
• Congenital heart defects: Heart problems present at birth.
What tests are available for heart disease?
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the electrical activity of the heart.
• Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create images of the heart.
• Stress test: Evaluates heart function during exercise.
• Blood test: Measures cholesterol levels, blood sugar and other markers.
• Coronary angiography: Uses X-rays to look at the heart’s arteries.
What is the treatment for heart disease?
• Treatment depends on the specific type of heart disease, but may include:
• Medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
• Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise and quitting smoking.
• Surgical procedures, such as angioplasty or bypass surgery, to restore blood flow to the heart
What diet should I follow?
A heart-healthy diet emphasizes:
• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins (fish, poultry)
• Healthy fats (olive oil, nuts)
• Limiting saturated and trans fats
• Reducing sodium intake
Which doctor will treat heart disease?
• Cardiologist
Can heart disease be completely cured?
• While some forms of heart disease can be cured or managed effectively, others are chronic conditions that require ongoing care. Prevention and early detection are key in managing heart disease.
