Cardiovascular disease is the term used to describe many conditions that affect the heart (cardio) and blood vessels (vascular). It is abnormalities in the rhythm of the heart’s pumping mechanism that cause the interruption of blood flow, oxygen starvation of the heart muscle, or complete closure of the heart (cardiac arrest). Some cardiovascular diseases are present at birth and others can develop over a period of many years. There are more than 60 different types of cardiovascular disease that affect all parts of the body, including the brain, arms, and legs. Recently, coronary heart disease has been identified as the most common cause of death (CVD).
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Health Federation, cardiovascular disease is the world’s largest fatal disease, claiming more than 40% of American adult lives each year. This is more than all forms of cancer death combined. Overall, it is responsible for nearly half of deaths in the US and other developed countries. It occurs almost the same in men and women, but the risk in women is usually higher after menopause.
Common causes of cardiovascular disease:
* Infections (bacterial, fungal or parasitic),
* Smoke tobacco
* Unhealthy diet
* Excessive alcohol intake
* Stress
* Lack of exercise
* Over weight
* Damage to the muscles or valves of the heart due to a congenital defect
10 symptoms to watch out for in cardiovascular disease
Some of the symptoms can easily be attributed to other health problems that affect different parts of the body. But here are the 10 most common symptoms that you shouldn’t overlook.
1. Angina (chest pains or chest discomfort) – This is the number one symptom we normally look for and can develop suddenly or over a period of many years. It begins with a heartbeat followed by severe chest pain.
2. Sweating: Continuous sweating even in a cold environment is a symptom of a heart attack. You may just be sitting up and suddenly find yourself sweating profusely as if you just worked out.
3. Anxiety – This is another heart attack symptom; It can present itself in various forms, nervousness, intense fear of death, or impending doom.
4. Numbness anywhere in the body – Some heart attack survivors experience death first, either lifeless in their arms or legs. This is sometimes called a stroke.
5. Fast or abnormal heartbeat: This can occur with or without chest pain, and is one of the vital signs that we should never ignore when naming symptoms of cardiovascular disease.
6. Bloating: Cardiovascular disease can cause fluid to build up in parts of the body, which can lead to bloating and weight gain, sometimes leading to loss of appetite.
7. High Blood Pressure – Rapid rise in blood pressure is a sign that can eventually lead to a heart attack, if not managed properly.
8. Dizziness – Loss of consciousness is another symptom that is generally believed to be one of the risk factors for a heart attack.
9. Severe cough: persistent cough is also one of the signs associated with a heart attack. It can even cause a complete closure of the heart if not managed properly.
10. Shortness of breath or difficulty catching your breath – Shortness of breath is an indicator of a heart attack that can lead to cardiac arrest, which means that people with minimal exertion can experience heart failure.
Steps to Take to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Attack
1. Eat a variety of fresh fruits
2. Eat foods rich in nutrients
3. Consume high-quality animal products, including a variety of seafood.
4. Avoid smoking, if you can
5. Get regular physical exercises
6. Check your blood pressure regularly and watch for any changes (especially if you are over 40 years old)
7. Avoid inhaling chemicals, pollutants, pesticides, and fumes.
8. Always eat a proper diet and avoid junk food.
If you experience any of the symptoms of cardiovascular disease mentioned above, you should see your doctor immediately, who will then assess your condition and recommend treatments. With proper care, you can manage any complication of the disease.