According to recent reports, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with one in three women dying from cardiovascular disease. It is also estimated that approximately half of the adults in the US have some form of cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular disease is an umbrella term that refers to a group of diseases that affect one or more parts of your heart and blood vessels.
Here, we will explore symptoms, causes, risk factors of cardiovascular disease, and the most common types of cardiovascular disease.
Symptoms of Cardiovascular Disease
Each patient with cardiovascular disease exhibits different symptoms.The most common symptoms that indicate cardiovascular disease include:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain or discomfort in the left shoulder, arms, elbow, jaw, or back
- Pain or pressure in the chest
- Light headedness or dizziness
- Cold sweats
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Causes of Cardiovascular Disease
Just like symptoms, the causes of cardiovascular disease also vary depending on the specific type of disease. For example, plaque buildup in the arteries causes peripheral and coronary artery disease. Infections, aging,and rheumatic disease result invalve disease.
Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Disease
People with the following risk factors are more likely to experience cardiovascular disorders:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol level
- Type 2 diabetes
- Tobacco use
- Lack of physical activity
- Obesity
- A diet high in sugar, fats, and sodium
- Overuse of alcohol
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
- Misuse of recreational drugs
- Gestational diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Preeclampsia, or high blood pressure during pregnancy
- Chronic inflammatory conditions or chronic autoimmune diseases
Common Cardiovascular Disease
The following are some common types of cardiovascular disease:
Arrhythmia
This is a condition in which there is an abnormal heart rhythm or heart rate due to a problem in the electrical conduction system of the heart.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is a cardiovascular problem in which there is a problem such as blockage in the blood vessels of the heart.
Valve Disease
This is a cardiovascular disorder in which heart valves leak or become tight.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease is a disorder in which there is a narrowing or blockage in the blood vessels of the periphery, such as arms, legs, or abdominal organs.
Heart Failure
This is a cardiovascular problem in which the heart cannot contract or relax normally, leading to the buildup of fluids and shortness of breath.
Heart Attack
A heart attack is a problem in which there is a sudden blockage in the heart’s blood flow and oxygen supply.
Congenital Heart Disease
This is a problem in the structure or function of the heart that is present from birth.
Stroke
Stroke is a serious health condition in which the supply of blood to the brain is stopped or restricted, leading to brain damage and even death.
Aortic Disease
This refers to the problems with the largest blood vessel of the body, called the aorta. Aortic dilatation and aneurysm are the two common aortic diseases.
In an aortic aneurysm, the wall of the aorta becomes weak and bulges outward.In aortic dilatation, the diameter of the aorta exceeds the normal range. Aortic dilatation is a risk factor for aortic aneurysm and rupture.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when there is a blockage in a vein deep in your body. A vein is a blood vessel that bring deoxygenated blood from the body to the heart.
Cardiovascular Disease Treatment in Northern New Jersey
Here at Hudson MD Group, we have a team of highly experienced and compassionate cardiology specialists who work with patients to develop a highly personalized treatment plan for their unique cardiovascular disorders. In addition to specialty care, we also offer primary care services to residents of northern New Jersey and beyond.
To make an appointment with us, call today at (973) 705-4914 or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
