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, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and strokes.
What causes cardiovascular disease?
CVD is often caused by plaque buildup inside the arteries (atherosclerosis). This can lead to decreased blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart and other organs. Major risk factors include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Genetics and age also play a role.
Some key facts about CVD:
- CVD is the 1 cause of death globally according to the World Health Organization
- An estimated 18 million deaths per year are caused by CVD
- In the US, someone suffers a heart attack every 40 seconds
What are the symptoms of cardiovascular disease?
Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Leg pain or swelling
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeats
If you experience any concerning cardiac symptoms, seek prompt medical care. Tests that help diagnose CVD include
EKG, stress test, echocardiogram, and
coronary angiogram.
How is cardiovascular disease treated?
Treatment depends on the specific type of CVD. In general, options include:
- Medications - Such as statins, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors
- Medical procedures - Examples are angioplasty, stents, bypass surgery
- Lifestyle changes - Quit smoking, improve diet, increase exercise
Managing risk factors is crucial for prevention. Small positive choices each day can go a long way! For instance, walking 30 minutes daily cuts CVD risk by 20-30%. Don't wait -
check your numbers and know where you stand today!
At Butterfly Hormone Center, we offer advanced cardiovascular screening and risk assessment. Our integrative approach combines cutting-edge diagnostics with customized lifestyle, nutrition and hormone optimization solutions. Contact us to learn more or schedule your evaluation.
I hope this overview on cardiovascular disease was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Taking proactive steps for cardiovascular wellness now can pay huge dividends for your future vitality and longevity.