Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses various disorders such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and more.
CVD is the leading cause of death globally. Given the prevalence and health burden of CVD, it is crucial to understand what exactly it entails.
What causes cardiovascular disease?
There are various risk factors that contribute to the development of CVD over time:
- Atherosclerosis - Buildup of plaque in the arteries causes them to harden and narrow, restricting blood flow. This process starts early, even in childhood years.
- High blood pressure - The force of blood pushing against arterial walls increases the risk for blockages. Hypertension leads to artery damage.
- High cholesterol - Accumulation of LDL particles in blood expedites atherosclerosis and can clog arteries.
- Diabetes - Impairs the lining of blood vessels and makes atherosclerotic plaques more likely.
- Genetics - Family history increases vulnerability for CVD.
- Lifestyle factors like poor nutrition, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake.
The accumulation of plaque buildup combined with risks like hypertension can trigger cardiovascular events like
heart attacks, strokes, aneurysms, and more by impeding blood supply to the heart and brain.
What are common symptoms of CVD?
Those with undiagnosed CVD may not experience symptoms until more serious complications arise.
Chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations are common signs.
Unfortunately, some people show no signs at all or have sudden cardiac arrest without prior symptoms making early screening important even among asymptomatic individuals to mitigate risk before crisis occurs.
How can cardiovascular disease be prevented?
Many heart diseases can be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle:
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet low in sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol
- Engaging in regular aerobic exercise
- Maintaining healthy body weight
- Managing conditions like diabetes, cholesterol, hypertension
- Avoiding tobacco
- Limiting alcohol
Early screening tests like checking
cholesterol levels, blood pressure, blood sugar can catch potential issues to be proactively treated through medications or lifestyle adjustments – this is key for prevention.
In summary, cardiovascular disease arises from distinct yet interconnected mechanisms like atherosclerosis and hypertension that obstruct blood vessels supplying the heart and brain. Leading a heart-healthy lifestyle and getting routine check-ups helps mitigate risk for heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.