Heart health problems encompass a broad range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. Some common heart health issues include:
Coronary artery disease (CAD): CAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup, leading to chest pain (angina), heart attack, or other complications.
Hypertension (high blood pressure): Persistent high blood pressure can strain the heart and arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
Heart failure: Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs.
Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms, which can cause palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or even sudden cardiac arrest.
Valvular heart disease: This involves abnormalities in the heart valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leaking), which can impair blood flow and lead to symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
Congenital heart defects: These are structural abnormalities present at birth, affecting the heart’s structure and function.
Managing heart health problems often involves lifestyle changes (e.g., healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation), medications, and sometimes surgical interventions (e.g., angioplasty, bypass surgery, valve repair or replacement). Regular medical follow-up and preventive measures are crucial in maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of complications.