Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is the leading cause of death globally, responsible for over 17 million deaths per year. Major types of CVD include:
- Coronary artery disease: Plaque buildup inside the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. Can lead to heart attack.
- Cerebrovascular disease: Disease of blood vessels supplying the brain. Can lead to stroke.
- Peripheral artery disease: Narrowing of arteries that supply blood to the arms and legs. Causes pain with activity.
Risk factors for developing CVD include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, family history, poor diet, and physical inactivity. Many risk factors are preventable by making
lifestyle changes.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of CVD but may include chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in the arms/legs, difficulty speaking, and more. Getting evaluated quickly when symptoms appear is crucial.
Diagnosis often begins with a medical history, physical exam, and description of symptoms. Tests like EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, CT scans, and angiograms help confirm CVD. Blood tests assess risk factors like cholesterol levels.
Treatment options differ based on the type and severity of CVD:
- Medications like cholesterol and blood pressure medications, beta blockers, and blood thinners
- Medical procedures such as angioplasty, stents, and bypass surgery
- Lifestyle changes including improved diet, exercise, smoking cessation
The future of CVD includes increased screening to catch it early, research on the genetics and prevention of CVD, advances in surgical techniques, and hopefully the development of new and better medications.
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