Introduction
Globally, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) or cardiac problems are the leading cause of death. The World Health Organization datasheet states that 17.9 million people die of CVDs yearly, making up 32% of all deaths worldwide. Moreover, 30% of these deaths occur prematurely in people under the age of 70 years.What is cardiovascular disease?
CVDs or cardiovascular disease refers to disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiac issues usually result from the accumulation of fatty deposits inside the arteries (also known as atherosclerosis). It can put you at risk for blood clots and artery damage.
What are the types of cardiac problems?
There are four main types of cardiac problems, which are:
1. Coronary heart disease: When the flow of oxygen-rich blood is blocked from entering the heart muscle, it can put increased strain on the heart. This is a sign of a cardiac issue developing. It can eventually lead to angina (chest pain), heart attacks, and heart failure.
2. Strokes: Sometimes, the blood supply to certain parts of the brain is reduced or blocked, causing damage to the brain. In some cases, this can result in death. Sometimes people have a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or a mini-stroke, where blood flow to the brain is disrupted temporarily.
3. Peripheral arterial disease: Characterised by dull, numbing or cramping leg pain, hair loss on the legs and feet, and persistent ulcers in the feet, this cardiac issue occurs when the arteries to the limbs are blocked.
4. Aortic disease: This is when the aorta is weakened and bulges outwards. If it bursts, it can be life-threatening.
What are the risk factors for cardiac problems?
The most common risk factors for cardiac problems include:
• Age over 40
• Unhealthy diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Obesity
• Hypertension
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Family history of CVD
Signs of cardiac distress
Here are some signs of cardiac distress you must watch out for:
• Chest pain, tightness, pressure, and discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in jaw, throat, neck, jaw, or back
• Pain, weakness, numbness in limbs
• Irregular heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Heart flutter
• Fatigue
• Waking up short of breath
• Swollen legs, ankles, or feet
Ways to prevent cardiac problems
Specific lifestyle changes such as cutting out smoking and tobacco, reducing alcohol intake, reducing salt in the diet, eating more fruit and vegetables, and engaging in regular physical activity can ensure you do not have cardiac issues. Also, ensure that you get a test for cardiac problems if you are over 40. A test for cardiac issues can identify if you are at risk of CVDs and ensure that you receive appropriate treatment in time.
What are the ways to test for cardiac problems?
While doctors may recommend different medical tests depending on the nature of cardiac problems, here are some of the common tests:
1. Blood tests: Measure the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, minerals, and vitamins
2. Electrocardiogram (ECG): Reads the heart’s electrical impulses
3. Treadmill test: Assesses how your heart responds to external stress
4. Exercise thallium scan: Determines the blood flow to the heart
5. Coronary angiogram: Prescribed only after a heart attack
6. Coronary computed tomography angiogram: Diagnoses coronary artery disease
Conclusion
Routinely getting a heart check-up is the best way to diagnose any underlying conditions.
Contact your healthcare provider for the right test for cardiac problems. Head to the Medkart website to learn more about cardiac issues and how to prevent such illnesses.
FAQs
1. What should your body mass index be to help prevent cardiac problems?
Try and keep your BMI below 25. Men should try to keep their waist measurement under 94 cm (37 inches); for women, the measurement should be under 80 cm (31.5 inches).
2. What is a balanced diet to prevent cardiac problems?
In order to ensure heart health, your diet should have low levels of processed fats, salt, and sugar. On the other hand, make sure to add high levels of fibre, wholegrain foods, fruits, vegetables, and saturated fat (found in oily fish, nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil).
3. What are the symptoms of heart failure?
The major symptoms of cardiac problems or failure are:
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue and weakness
• Swelling in feet, ankles, and legs
• Irregular heartbeat
• Persistent coughing
• Swelling of the abdomen.
