Common heart conditions
Various heart conditions can affect people of all ages. Some common ones include:
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
By pushing too hard on arteries, blood pressure causes heart disease.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Due to plaque buildup, narrow or blocked blood vessels supply the heart, leading to CAD. A heart attack or chest pain (angina) can result.
Arrhythmias
In this state, the heart beats fast, slow, or unevenly.
Heart Failure
Due to an inefficient heart pump, heart failure causes fatigue and shortness of breath.
Heart disease causes
Heart conditions are caused by several factors, including:
Unhealthy Diet:
A high-fat, high-cholesterol, and high-sodium diet increases the risk of heart disease.
Lack of Exercise:
An inactive lifestyle may raise your risk of obesity and heart disease.
Smoking:
If you smoke, you are more likely to develop a blood clot.
Genetics:
Family history boosts your chances of having heart disease.
Signs
- Pain or discomfort in the chest
- Breathing difficulties
- Tiredness
- Heartbeat irregularity
- Legs, ankles, or abdomen swelling
Seek medical alert immediately if you undergo any of these signs.
Diagnosis
Among the tests used to diagnose heart conditions are:
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG):
Analyzes the electrical activity of the heart.
Blood Tests:
Identify markers of heart disease or damage.
Echocardiogram:
Uses sound waves to create heart images.
Stress Test:
Physical activity measures the heart’s performance.
Cardiac Catheterization:
Blood flow and pressure are measured with a catheter inserted into the heart.
Treatment
Depending on the severity and type of heart condition, treatment varies. A few common treatments are:
Lifestyle shifts
Dietary habits, regular exercise, and smoking cessation are key to keeping a healthy heart.
Drugs
Medicines can lower BP, control cholesterol, and control the heartbeat.
Methods
Angioplasties, stents, and bypass surgery are possible in severe cases.
Prevention
Maintaining heart health requires prevention. Here are a few tips:
- Get plenty of fruits, veggies, and whole grains in your diet.
- Stay active by exercising regularly.
- Relax with yoga or meditation.
- Avoid excessive drink
Final words
Cardiovascular health depends on understanding heart conditions. Healthy lifestyles can make a big difference in reducing some risk factors, like genetics. Regular checkups with your doctor can prevent heart problems from developing.
If you are seeking for the best cardiology hospital in Zirakpur, reach out to Amcare Hospital