When the topic of heart disease comes up, most people think of coronary artery disease. It is the most common type of heart disease and the biggest cause of heart attack. However, the term covers a range of medical conditions affecting the muscles, valves and vessels of the heart.
Heart disease includes:
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
- Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscles)
- Congenital Heart Disease (hereditary heart conditions)
- Coronary Heart Disease and Other Blood Vessel Diseases
- Heart Attack
- Heart Failure
- Stroke
- Valve Disease
Symptoms Of Heart Disease
Although symptoms vary depending on the type of heart disease a person has, the symptoms of many heart conditions are similar. It’s important to note that symptoms can also be different for men and women, particularly when it comes to a heart attack.
Symptoms of heart disease include:
- Chest discomfort, pain or tightness
- Dizziness/fainting
- Fast, slow or irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the abdomen, arms or legs
- Weakness, numbness, or pain in the arms or legs
Risk Factors For Heart Disease
A number of factors (many of them lifestyle-related) can increase the risk for developing heart disease. They include:
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Smoking
- Being Overweight
- Sedentary Lifestyle
- Diabetes
- Poor Diet
The good news is that you can reduce your risk of most forms of heart disease with a heart-healthy lifestyle. By eating a healthy diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and managing medical conditions, many people can avoid developing heart disease. It is also important to get regular checkups with your primary care physician, especially if your family has a history of heart disease or if you are experiencing any symptoms. If you develop sudden and severe symptoms of heart disease, seek emergency medical attention.
The team at Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists consists of North Louisiana’s leading experts in cardiovascular care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call our office at (318) 798-9400.