You probably know someone suffering from heart disease,
stroke or another cardiovascular disease. Most of us do. Heart disease is a
lifelong condition that requires a lifestyle adjustment to help prevent other
conditions from developing. As we
celebrate American Heart Health Month, it is important to know how the leading
cause of death in Americans affects us.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 610,000
people die of heart disease in the United States every year—that’s one in every
four deaths. 1 While these are just some of the heart-related conditions that can develop from heart disease, there are many more that can impact quality of life for you or your loved ones. It is important to know the risk factors, warning signs and prevention techniques of heart disease. For more information on how to improve your heart health, read our article “How Fitness Can Improve Your Heart Health At Any Age.”
The biggest risk factors for heart disease are high blood
pressure, high cholesterol and smoking; but diabetes, obesity, poor diet,
physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use are also contributing factors. While heart disease can develop into many conditions, the following are some of the most common:
Heart Attack
About 735,000 Americans per year have a heart attack, which
is when the heart can’t get the oxygen it needs because of a lack of blood
flow. Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack might save your
life. Chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack; however, upper
body pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck jaw or upper stomach; shortness
of breath; and nausea, lightheadedness or cold sweats are also warning signs.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention
immediately.
Stroke
There are two main types of strokes -- ischemic, which occur
when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a portion of the brain is blocked; and
hemorrhagic, which occur when an artery in the brain leaks blood or breaks open
and the pressure from the leaked blood damages the brain cells. When brain
cells die from lack of oxygen or pressure, long-term damage in other parts of
the body that these brain cells control can occur. The main symptoms of stroke
are sudden weakness; paralysis or numbness of the face, arms or legs; trouble
speaking or understanding speech; and trouble seeing. If you think you or
someone you know is having a stroke, call 9-1-1 right away so medical personnel
can begin life-saving treatment immediately. 2
Congestive Heart
Failure
This condition occurs when the heart does not pump blood as
well as it should and the body’s need for blood and oxygen isn’t being met. While
there is no cure for heart failure, there are medications that can manage the
symptoms and many people can lead a fulfilling life while getting treated.
While these are just some of the heart-related conditions
that can develop from heart disease, there are many more that can impact
quality of life for you or your loved ones. It is important to know the risk
factors, warning signs and prevention techniques of heart disease. If we stay
informed, we can keep our hearts healthy.
If you have questions about your healthcare care needs, call 1.866.KINDRED to speak with one of our Registered Nurses about what types are services are most appropriate for your unique situation.
This article is
informational only and does not constitute medical advice, and is not a
substitute for medical or professional care.