Did you know that over seven million individuals in the United States, aged 20 and older, are living with some type of heart condition, and every year, between 600,000 and 700,000 people in the U.S. suffer a stroke?
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among those aged 65 and above in the U.S. It includes a range of conditions affecting both the heart and blood vessels, such as issues with heart valves, muscles, or blood vessels, along with problems related to blood circulation and electrical function.
Vascular conditions impact the arteries and veins, and include disorders like peripheral artery disease, venous problems, blood clots, and others. In fact, one out of every 20 Americans over the age of 20 is impacted by some form of heart disease.
Know Your Risk
Cardiovascular diseases impact people of all genders, ethnicities, races and ages. There are non-modifiable risks – the things we can’t change – such as age, race, ethnicity, gender, family history and genetics. For instance, there is a higher prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among men (8%) than women (6%). African Americans and South Asian Americans are also at a higher risk than other races.
But there are also modifiable risks like high blood pressure, diabetes, tobacco use, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, high cholesterol and more. We can make the necessary changes in our lives to mitigate these risks.
All Chest Pain is not Equal
“Think about your own body – there’s a lot going on between the neck and the bottom of your ribs,” said Bayhealth Cardiologist Vincent D. Abbrescia, DO, FACC. “Of course, chest pain can be indicative of a heart attack, but it can also signal many other medical issues like ulcers, hiatal hernia, gall bladder issues, GERD, costochondritis, panic attacks, pneumonia, blood clots – the list goes on.”
While all chest pains are not necessarily indicative of cardiovascular disease, individuals should bring related symptoms to the attention of a medical professional as they occur or soon after. That may mean calling or visiting your doctor within a day or two. For more severe symptoms, an immediate visit to an emergency room may be in order.
Give Yourself the Best Advantage
Treatments for cardiovascular disease include medication, education, and lifestyle changes.
“A lesser doctor will treat the disease after it’s already taken hold,” said Dr. Abbrescia. “A good doctor will diagnose and treat the disease before it gets out of control. A great doctor will take steps to prevent the disease entirely.”
Heart disease can be diagnosed through review of an individual’s history, a medical exam or a risk assessment. Your primary care provider should review these items with you to make sure you’re on track.
There are steps you can take, too, to prevent cardiovascular disease. Be an active participant in your own health:
- Don’t smoke
- Keep your weight at a healthy level
- Be active/don’t live a sedentary lifestyle
- Keep an eye on your cholesterol
- Control diabetes by lowering your A1C
“Once diagnosed, treatment requires a team approach. Certainlly the doctor will work with the patient to reduce risks, but there are many others who need to be involved along the way,” said Dr. Abbrescia. “Imaging, dietitians, medical educators, social workers, health navigators, family members, and caregivers are all pieces of the puzzle.
Frequent Asked Questions
What are the common risks to heart health?
- The primary risks to heart health include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of heart disease. Other factors such as diabetes, stress, and an unhealthy diet can also increase the risk of heart problems.
How can I prevent heart disease?
Preventing heart disease involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, managing stress, and regularly monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
What are the symptoms of heart disease?
Symptoms of heart disease can vary but often include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.
What treatments are available for heart disease?
Treatment options for heart disease include lifestyle changes, medications (such as statins, blood pressure medications, and blood thinners), and medical procedures like angioplasty, stent placement, or coronary artery bypass surgery. The specific treatment depends on the type and severity of heart disease.
When should I see a doctor about my heart health?
It’s important to see a doctor regularly for heart health check-ups, especially if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, seek immediate medical attention. Early detection and treatment can help prevent more serious heart complications.