Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses numerous issues such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and more.
Some key facts about cardiovascular disease:
- CVD is the 1 cause of death globally, responsible for over 17 million deaths per year
- Key risk factors include high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and diabetes
- Both genetic and lifestyle factors contribute to an individual's risk
- Early detection and treatment is key to preventing complications of CVD
Coronary artery disease (CAD) specifically refers to plaque accumulation in the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. This can lead to issues like:
- Angina - temporary chest pain/discomfort
- Myocardial infarction - heart attack due to blocked blood flow
- Heart failure - inability of the heart to pump enough blood
Diagnosis of cardiovascular disease often involves medical history, physical exam, blood tests, EKG, stress testing, CT scan, cardiac MRI, cardiac catheterization, and echocardiogram.
Treatment options depend on the specific condition but may include medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes:
- Medications like cholesterol and blood pressure lowering drugs, blood thinners, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, etc.
- Procedures like angioplasty, stents, bypass surgery, pacemakers, valve repair, heart transplant in severe cases
- Improved diet, exercise routine, smoking cessation
Early screening for CVD risk factors is recommended, especially for those over age 50 or with other health conditions like diabetes. If caught early, cardiovascular disease can often be well-managed with modern medicine!
If you're concerned about your heart health, consider getting a comprehensive hormone panel at Hormone Harmony Clinic. Our personalized care plans incorporate diet, exercise, stress management, and when appropriate, bioidentical hormone therapy to help patients optimize their wellbeing and vitality. Mention this ad for 10% off your first visit!
In summary,
cardiovascular disease is an umbrella term referring to conditions affecting the heart and vessels.
Coronary artery disease specifically indicates plaque buildup that can lead to events like
heart attacks. Key risk factors include cholesterol levels, hypertension, smoking, obesity and inactivity. Both medication and lifestyle changes play important roles in prevention and treatment. Protecting cardiovascular health is one of the most vital steps people can take to extend lifespan!