Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death globally, responsible for taking over 17 million lives each year. The most common types of CVD are coronary artery disease, stroke, hypertension, rheumatic heart disease, and heart failure.
What causes cardiovascular disease?
There are a number of risk factors that can increase a person's chances of developing CVD. The main ones are:
- High blood pressure - also known as hypertension, this makes the heart work harder to pump blood around the body.
- High cholesterol - this leads to a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, making them narrower.
- Smoking - chemicals in tobacco damage blood vessels.
- Diabetes - high blood sugar levels can damage arteries.
- Obesity - excess body fat strains the heart and blood vessels.
- Physical inactivity - lack of exercise increases the risk.
- Unhealthy diet - high in saturated fats, trans fats, salt and sugar.
- Excess alcohol - raises blood pressure.
- Family history - genetic predisposition.
How is cardiovascular disease treated?
Treatment aims to manage symptoms, slow the progression of disease, and prevent complications. Common treatments include:
- Medications - such as statins, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Surgery - like angioplasty to open blocked arteries, or bypass surgery to reroute blood around blocked arteries.
- Lifestyle changes - improving diet, increasing exercise, quitting smoking.
Can cardiovascular disease be prevented?
Yes, up to 80% of CVD cases could be prevented by addressing risk factors like:
- Maintaining healthy blood pressure
- Controlling cholesterol levels
- Avoiding tobacco
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Managing stress levels
- Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight
Small, sustainable lifestyle changes can make a big difference in heart health over time. *"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."*
At Hormone Harmony Clinic, our qualified medical team provides comprehensive preventive health services to help you optimize your wellbeing and reduce CVD risk. We offer cutting-edge diagnostic testing, personalized treatment plans, and proactive health management strategies utilizing the latest advancements in hormone optimization therapy. *Stay on top of your health with the experts at Hormone Harmony Clinic!*