Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs)

Cardiovascular diseases are very common among people, and they’re one of the most common causes that lead to severe complications, which, in turn, lead to death in some cases if not managed.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders that affect both the heart and blood vessels together or each one alone.

CVDs occur in all people, but they might occur more in people from Africa and south Asia.

Types of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

Some cardiovascular diseases are:

Valve diseases

They’re responsible for transferring blood within the heart and between it and the blood vessels, and it could tighten or leak.

Coronary artery disease

Problems in the coronary artery in the heart, in which the blood flows into the heart.

Aortic disease

The artery that transfers blood from the heart to the whole body.

Pericardial disease

The lining that surrounds the heart.

Arrhythmia

Disturbance in the electric conduction system in the heart.

Heart failure

Problems in the bumping and relaxing functions of the heart.

Congenital heart disease

A heart problem that the person is born with.

Peripheral arterial disease

Problems in the blood vessels of the arms, legs, and abdominal organs, such as DVT.

Cerebrovascular disease

Such as the stroke.

Causes and risk factors leading to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

The causes differ depending on the type of the cardiovascular disease, yet it’s usually associated with atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries) and an increased risk of blood clots.

Some factors that increase the risk of CVDs:

• High blood cholesterol.
• High blood pressure.
• Type 2 diabetes.
• Family history.
• Smoking and tobacco products.
• Obesity.
• Not exercising enough.
• Diet high in sugar, sodium, and fats.
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Some pregnancy problems, like gestational diabetes.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Some autoimmune diseases.
• Drug abuse.

Symptoms of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

The symptoms differ depending on the type of the CVD. Some of them are:

Symptoms of heart issues

• A feeling of pressure in the chest.
• Chest pain (angina).
• Shortness of breath.
• Fatigue.
• Dizziness or fainting.

Symptoms of blockages in the blood vessels

• Redness, swelling, and pain in the organ or place.
• Numbness.
• Sores.
• Difficulty moving the organ.

Diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

• Blood tests.
• Heart tests, such as cardiac catheterization.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

The treatment depends on the symptoms, and the doctor prescribes specific medications and sometimes makes some procedure.

Generally, the patient must do the following:

• Follow a healthy lifestyle.
• Exercise regularly.
• Follow a healthy diet.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
• Manage stress.