WHAT IS HEART DISEASE?
The term "heart disease" encompasses various conditions that impact the function and structure of the heart. It includes blood vessel diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart rhythm problems like arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects. Heart disease is commonly known as cardiovascular disease, which involves the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels that can prevent the body from receiving sufficient oxygen. Such blockages can lead to life-threatening issues, including:
- Heart attack
- Angina
- Stroke
- Arrhythmia
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.
HEART STRUCTURE
The heart consists of two distinct pumping systems or chambers: the right chamber and the left chamber. The right chamber receives blood from the veins and pumps it to the lungs, where the blood is oxygenated and carbon dioxide is released. The left chamber receives oxygen-rich blood from the lungs and pumps it through the arteries to the rest of the body.
15 SYMPTOMS OF HEART DISEASE (OR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE)
- Chest pains or twinges
Chest pain is a common indicator of heart disease, often resulting from a blocked artery. This pain may manifest as tightness or pressure in the chest area, described variably by individuals.
Some liken it to the sensation of a large animal sitting on their chest, while others experience a burning sensation. The discomfort can persist for several minutes and may occur during both activity and rest. If symptoms persist for a few minutes without relief or worsen, it is crucial to call 911 and not attempt to drive oneself to the hospital.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE OR HYPERTENSION
Hypertension occurs when blood exerts excessive force against the walls of the arteries. This force is quantified by a doctor when measuring blood pressure. High blood pressure typically presents no symptoms, making regular checks important. Refer to the chart provided by the American Heart Association for various blood pressure ranges.
Not lowering your blood pressure can lead to a stroke or heart attack. Lowering blood pressure can be achieved through exercise, reducing salt intake, and following a healthy diet. If these measures are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe medication to manage your blood pressure.
STOMACH ACHE ACCOMPANIED BY INDIGESTION
During a heart attack, symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, or stomach pain may occur. It is observed that women are more likely to experience these symptoms compared to men. If you have stomach pain along with other symptoms of a heart attack, it is crucial to call emergency services immediately, as it could be indicative of a heart attack.
ARM PAIN
Pain radiating down the left arm is a classic symptom of a heart attack. Typically, the pain spreads outward from the chest. For some individuals, arm pain may be the primary indicator of a heart attack, so this symptom should never be disregarded.
DIZZINESS
A combination of dizziness and chest discomfort could indicate a heart attack, as the dizziness may result from a rapid drop in blood pressure due to improper heart function. It is crucial to call emergency services immediately and avoid driving yourself to the hospital.
JAW OR THROAT PAIN
Jaw or throat pain accompanied by chest pain can be an unusual symptom of heart disease and may indicate a heart attack. It is crucial to call 911 immediately if you experience these symptoms, especially if they occur with other signs of a heart attack.
SUDDEN FATIGUE OR EXTREME TIREDNESS
This subtle symptom can be easily overlooked. If you've been feeling exhausted for several months, it's advisable to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Even minor changes can be meaningful; do not disregard them, as they may indicate early heart disease.
SNORING
Loud snoring, which may sound like choking or gasping, could indicate sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops during sleep. This can strain the heart and potentially lead to heart disease. It's advisable to consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms. A CPAP machine, often prescribed by doctors, can assist with breathing during the night.
COLD SWEATS
Experiencing a cold sweat without engaging in exercise or strenuous activity could indicate a heart attack, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. It's crucial to act quickly and call emergency services. It's always better to err on the side of caution.
A PERSISTENT COUGH
It might be surprising to learn that a persistent cough, lasting several months, could indicate heart disease. Coughing up pinkish or white mucus may signal heart failure, occurring when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, causing blood to backflow into the lungs. It is crucial to schedule a doctor's appointment for a heart and lung evaluation.
SWOLLEN LEGS, ANKLES
Edema can be a warning sign of heart disease. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or fingers may indicate that the heart is not pumping effectively, causing blood to accumulate in the veins and leading to swelling. Heart disease can also impair the kidneys' ability to eliminate water and sodium, contributing to edema.
IRREGULAR HEARTBEAT
It's normal for everyone's heart to race occasionally, often due to excitement or anxiety. However, if this occurs frequently, it might indicate a heart condition. It's important to describe the sensation to your doctor. For some, it feels similar to the rapid heartbeat caused by excessive caffeine intake. This could point to atrial fibrillation, a condition that requires medical attention.
MIGRAINES
Research indicates that heart attacks are more frequent during migraines, particularly those accompanied by auras. Individuals with a family history of heart disease might reconsider using migraine medications known as triptans, as they constrict blood vessels. It's crucial to consult with your doctor about managing migraines and assessing the risk of a heart attack.
BEING A PARENT
While not exactly a symptom, having children is a lifestyle factor that can contribute to heart disease, with the risk increasing with each child for both men and women. For women, an increased risk of stroke is associated with having their first menstrual period before age 12 and menopause before age 46. Additionally, women who have experienced a miscarriage or undergone a hysterectomy face a higher risk of heart disease.
BEING SHORT
It may not appear equitable, but shorter stature is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. For every 2.5 inches below average height, the risk of heart disease increases by nearly 10%. In the United States, the average height is 5 feet 4 inches for women and 5 feet 9 inches for men. The heightened risk of heart disease in shorter individuals is often attributed to their typically higher cholesterol levels.
HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY?
Maintaining heart health involves consuming foods low in saturated and trans fats. A diet rich in vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains is recommended. It's important to limit intake of sugar and salt, eat lean meats, and include fish in your meals at least twice a week. Other beneficial heart-healthy practices include:
- Exercise: Regular exercise is crucial as the heart is a muscle that needs to remain strong. Physical activity is an effective method to prevent heart disease.
- Quit smoking: It's widely acknowledged that smoking adversely affects both the heart and lungs.
- Weight management: Keeping your weight in check is key to lowering cholesterol levels and preventing arterial blockages.
- Avoid overeating: Consuming more food than necessary can lead to weight gain.
- Stress management: While it's impossible to eliminate all stress, finding stress-relief methods such as exercise is beneficial for heart health.
- Vitamin D intake: Incorporating vitamin D into your diet supports heart health.
