Cardiovascular Disease - Endocrine Wellness Institute

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) encompasses a range of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels. Untreated, these conditions can lead to serious health problems and even death.

What is Cardiovascular Disease?

Cardiovascular disease is a broad term covering conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. This includes heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, and heart valve problems, as well as vascular diseases like stroke and peripheral artery disease.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing CVD, including:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Lack of physical activity
• Unhealthy diet
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Family history of heart disease
• Increasing age

A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce CVD risk.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the type of CVD, but common warning signs include:

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as they could indicate a serious condition. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes.

Treatment and Prevention

CVD treatment depends on the specific condition and severity. Treatments may include:

• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, smoking cessation)
• Medications (blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, blood pressure medications)
• Surgical procedures (angioplasty, stenting, bypass surgery)

Preventing CVD is crucial. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and stress management—significantly reduces risk. Prioritizing heart health is essential.