February is American Heart Health month, as a way to raise awareness about cardiovascular health and inform people about the risks factors and prevention of cardiovascular disease.
What is Cardiovascular Disease?
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among Americans and universally. Cardiovascular disease is a combination of many diseases that affect certain parts of the heart or blood vessels e.g., narrowing of blood vessels in heart/ other body parts, defective heart valves, or irregular heart rhythms. A person can experience symptoms from the disease, while another person can have zero symptoms, not knowing they have cardiovascular disease.
Common Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease…
You may have a higher chance of developing cardiovascular disease if you have the risk factors below:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
- Smoking cigarettes (contains vaping)
- Physical inactivity
- Excessive weight
- Excessive alcohol use
- Diet high in sugar, fat, or sodium
Types of Cardiovascular Disease…
- Arrhythmia: an issue with the heart’s electrical conduction system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms or heart rate
- Coronary artery disease: issues with the heart’s blood vessels, due to blockage
- Valve Disease: tightness or leaking in the heart valves
- Heart failure: an issue with the pumping/relaxation of the heart, leading to fluid build up and shortness of breath
- Peripheral artery disease: issues with circulation in the blood vessels of the arms, legs, and abdominal organs, caused by blockage or narrowing
Signs and Symptoms of Cardiovascular Disease…
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Chest pain (angina)
- Dizziness or fainting with exertion
- Fatigue/exhaustion with mild exertion
- Intermittent claudication
How to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease…
It is possible to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease through lifestyle changes. Here are ways to prevent cardiovascular disease:
- Eating a clean and balanced diet
- Avoid any tobacco products
- Managing current health conditions e.g., high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising 3 days per week for 30-60 minutes
- Reducing stress
References
“Cardiovascular Disease: Types, Causes & Symptoms.” Cleveland Clinic, 1 September 2022,
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21493-cardiovascular-disease.