Heart disease is an umbrella term that covers a number of heart ailments that negatively affect its performance. The heart is one of the most important organs of our body. It is a muscle that continuously pumps blood, oxygen and other vital nutrients to all parts of the body. An impediment in this pumping mechanism can lead to vital parts of our body like brain and kidneys being negatively affected.
Main Symptoms of Heart Disease
Generally heart disease is not something that takes a person by surprise. There are a number of signs and symptoms portrayed by the body when its most important organ is not working right.
- Angina or chest pain is one of the most common symptoms of heart disease. This is characterized by a heaviness or fullness in the chest region. Though such pain or squeezing sensation generally occurs in the chest, it might also occur in the back, neck or jaws.
- Uneven beating of the heart, shortness of breath and sweating can also be signs of an existing heart problem.
- Nausea and heart palpitations
While these symptoms are also common for several other health conditions, they should never be ignored. Getting these symptoms thoroughly checked by a physician will help ensure that heart disease doesn’t catch you unawares.
Risk Factors That Can Contribute To an Ailing Heart
- High Blood Pressure: This is a major risk and can often lead to heart attacks if ignored.
- Increased Levels of Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fat like substance in our blood which is required for the proper formation of our cell membranes and tissues. Any excess cholesterol which is not used by the body gets deposited in our arteries. Such cholesterol deposits can lead to clogging of arteries which can in turn lead to coronary heart disorder.
- Diabetes: A diabetic is much more vulnerable to heart ailments as compared to someone who is non-diabetic. Controlling your sugar levels is extremely important as these can lead to heart problems.
- Life Style Risk Factors: Smoking is a major cause of heart attacks. Eating a diet rich in fats and oils is another contributor to heart problems. A sedentary life with very little exercise can also lead to heart diseases.
Treatment Options for Heart Diseases
- Angioplasty is generally done to treat coronary heart disorder. In this the plaques blocking the arteries are blown away using a balloon which is inflated next to them.
- Surgery or bypass: If the arterial block is too big then a surgery might be performed and a stent put to provide an alternative route for the blood and oxygen to flow from.
- Medication: Blood thinners are often given to heart patients as these can help the blood flow normally even through clogged arteries.
Life style changes are the single biggest influencing factor when it comes to preventing heart diseases. A healthier lifestyle with regular exercising, low fat diet and total cessation of smoking can go a long way in treat heart problems.