What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, but many people know little about it. Heart disease is a term that covers several problems that can affect this vital organ.
Types of heart disease
Coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, and arrhythmia are all forms of heart disease. They affect the heart in different ways. For example, in atherosclerosis, fatty materials harden artery walls.
Prevention
Simple measures can reduce your risk of getting heart disease.
● Stop smoking
● Exercise regularly
● Get regular checkups
● Reduce stress
● Eat a heart-healthy diet
Treatment
Coronary artery disease can be treated with an aspirin regimen or other drugs. Atherosclerosis treatment often involves taking medications known as statins along with other drugs. Arrhythmia may also be treated with drugs, but a pacemaker can be installed to keep the heart in a regular rhythm. General treatment plans may involve lowering high blood pressure and cholesterol. Surgical options for heart disease include installing stents or performing open heart surgery to bypass plaque buildup in the arteries. Another surgical option, angioplasty, widens blocked arteries by inserting and inflating a balloon.
It is critical to take care of your heart. Be sure to follow the prevention tips above and get regular checkups.
