Cardiovascular disease - Hormone Health Center

What is cardiovascular disease?

As stated by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood institute, cardiovascular disease refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is also referred to as heart disease.

There are different types of cardiovascular disease:

• Coronary artery disease - when fatty deposits build up in the coronary arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. This is the most common and most deadly form of heart disease and may cause a heart attack.
• Arrhythmia - abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular fibrillation, and tachycardia.

What contributes to cardiovascular disease?

Several factors contribute to cardiovascular disease:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Tobacco use and smoking
• Obesity and overweight
• Physical inactivity
• Unhealthy diet
• Diabetes
• Stress
• Family history of CVD

Many of these risk factors can be prevented or managed with lifestyle changes and medication if needed.

Our friends at Hormone Health Center also note that hormonal imbalances can negatively impact heart health. Getting hormones checked and optimized is key for cardiovascular wellness.

What are the symptoms of cardiovascular disease?

Symptoms vary depending on the specific type of CVD, but can include:

• Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in the arms, back, neck or jaw
• Nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or stomach pain
• Lightheadedness, dizziness
• Abnormal heart beats (arrhythmias)
• Extreme fatigue with no explanation

If you experience any concerning symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away for proper diagnosis and treatment. Catching issues early is crucial.

How is cardiovascular disease treated?

Treatment depends on the specific form of CVD:

• Medications - Such as cholesterol and blood pressure lowering drugs, blood thinners, antiplatelet agents, beta blockers, etc.
• Medical procedures - Angioplasty, stent placement, bypass surgery, pacemakers, implanted defibrillators
• Lifestyle changes - Diet, exercise, smoking cessation, stress reduction

Following doctor’s orders and adopting heart-healthy habits is key, whether or not medications or procedures are also needed. Small consistent changes do make a difference!