Cardiovascular disease is an umbrella term that discusses various diseases that cause problems to the heart. While affecting both men and women alike, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Read our blog to learn more about the heart of the problem and the best steps to implement for management.
An Overview of Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) groups together various heart and blood vessel disorders. The term’s broadness allows for understandable confusion, so let us simplify. There are 3 types of cardiovascular diseases, let’s get to the heart of the problem:
- Congenital heart disease stems from a congenital disability that influences the normal development and operation of the heart.
- Coronary heart disease is the most common form of cardiovascular disease. Blockage or interruption to your heart’s blood supply occurs because of built-up fatty substances in your coronary arteries.
- Peripheral arterial disease deals with circulatory issues that impact blood vessels, minimizing blood flow to the limbs.
All three of the conditions described above are different manifestations of cardiovascular disease. An important fact to remember is that heart disease can target one or multiple parts of your heart and blood vessels, multi-tasking better than you and I.
Living with CVD – What Can I Do?
Managing life with any condition can be challenging, but one should never take risks with something as serious as your heart. Implementing some healthy lifestyle changes can go a long way in managing cardiovascular disease. Here are some beneficial heart-healthy tips for practicing daily:
- Routine exercise: Healthcare professionals recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity weekly.
- Heart-healthy diet: Reducing consumption of processed foods, salt, sugar, and so forth can be highly beneficial. Instead, focus your dietary efforts on foods high in omega-3 or containing polyunsaturated fats, such as fish and fruits.
- Weight management: Not only does weight management boost your energy due to higher protein levels in the body, but it also lowers CVD complications and mortality.
- Stop smoking: A key factor for all forms of CVD is to quit smoking; this can drastically lessen damage to the heart.
Following prescribed treatment plans and regular checkups are a must. Taking care of the body that takes care of you is the greatest gift you can give yourself.
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Resources:
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease
