Heart disease is a broad term for various conditions that affect the structure or rhythm of the heart, and recognizing early warning signs and seeking medical care can help you care for your long-term health. While some symptoms appear suddenly, others develop slowly over several years. Consulting a medical professional for a check-up allows you to address or rules out the cause of the symptoms before they potentially become severe. Here is more information about cardiovascular issues and their symptoms:
Causes of Disease
Various factors lead to the development of different types of heart disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when fatty deposits create narrow pathways in your blood vessels. These blockages restrict the flow of blood to the heart. Structural issues like cardiomyopathy cause the heart muscle to become stiff or thickened, preventing the heart from effectively pumping blood to the rest of the body.
Arrhythmias are another common cause of heart issues. These abnormal rhythms keep the heart from beating in a predictable manner. Some people are born with congenital heart disease, which involves structural problems that formed before birth. Infections or inflammation can also target the pericardium, which is the sac surrounding your heart; when this sac becomes stiff, it presses on the heart and limits its movement.
Symptoms of Disease
Body signals often indicate when the heart is struggling to keep up with physical demands. You can monitor yourself for these indicators:
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
- Chronic fatigue and exercise intolerance
- Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness
- Rapid weight gain
- Fever
You may experience a racing heart or palpitations during rest. Some patients report neck pain, heartburn, or general indigestion. Nausea and vomiting can also accompany more traditional cardiac symptoms. If you find it difficult to sleep or feel exhausted after minor tasks, your heart may be under strain.
Diagnosis of Disease
Identifying a specific condition requires a thorough medical evaluation. Your doctor will begin with a consultation to review your personal medical history and family background. The provider then performs physical examinations to check your heart rate and blood pressure. After the initial evaluation and exams, the doctor may perform more thorough diagnostic tests.
Specific tests evaluate how well your heart functions under different conditions. Doctors use imaging technology to view the structure of your heart and blood vessels. These tests reveal blockages, valve issues, or irregular muscle thickness. The diagnostic process depends on your reported symptoms and the suspected type of condition.
Treatment of Disease
Interventions for cardiovascular issues range from simple lifestyle changes to advanced medical procedures. Patients with mild cases of heart disease often see improvements by changing their diet, stopping smoking, and increasing daily physical activity. These lifestyle changes can improve the outlook for long-term recovery and heart function.
Lifestyle change can help in some cases, but some patients will require medications to manage their symptoms effectively. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics or anticoagulants, depending on the specific diagnosis. Severe cases might necessitate surgical procedures to repair or replace faulty heart valves. Surgeons can also widen narrow valves to improve blood flow.
Learn More About Heart Disease
Monitoring your symptoms can help you maintain your cardiovascular health. If you experience the signs and symptoms of heart disease, scheduling a screening is a proactive choice. A qualified specialist can help diagnose or rule out heart disease and the cause of symptoms; if diagnosed with heart disease, you can seek further treatment and help from a cardiologist or other healthcare provider. For more information about the signs of heart disease and whether to see a doctor, consult your healthcare provider.
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