Cardiology
Understanding Heart Health and Disease: A Guide for the Common Man
Introduction
Heart Disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is used to describe heart malfunctions. Although heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world, many heart-related conditions can be prevented and managed. In this article, we aim to provide information on the causes of heart disease, the various forms of heart disease and available treatments.
What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease is a broad phrase that encompasses a wide range of cardiac disorders. The most common and well-known heart disease is coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) causes a build-up of fat and cholesterol in the arteries of the heart, which can lead to a heart attack.
End-stage heart failure is the most severe and advanced kind of heart disease. In this condition, the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to keep up with the demands of the body. The heart’s pumping capacity is severely compromised in end-stage heart failure and the disease has advanced to a critical stage.
CAD and other heart diseases can be prevented or treated through healthy lifestyle choices, medications, and surgical procedures.
Types of Heart Disease
Coronary artery disease
Blood vessels supplying the heart muscle become narrow or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Heart chambers become enlarged and weakened, reducing the pumping ability of the heart
Hypertensive heart disease
Prolonged high blood pressure can lead to an increase in the workload of the heart, ultimately resulting in heart failure.
Valvular heart disease
One or more valves in the heart do not function properly, disrupting the flow of blood through the heart to the rest of the body.
Common Symptoms of Heart Disease
Shortness of breath
Individuals may experience difficulty breathing even at rest or during minimal physical activity.
Chest pain
Chest pain or discomfort occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood.
Dizziness
Feeling faint or dizzy may. be due to a reduction of blood flow to your brain.
Fatigue and weakness
Your body is not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood, leading to fatigue and reduced energy levels.
Swelling
Your heart is unable to pump blood properly, leading to fluid build-up in your body. This fluid can accumulate in your legs and ankles, making them swell.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
The electrical signals that control your heart’s rhythm are not functioning properly, resulting in irregular heartbeats.
Causes of Heart Disease
Age
The older you are, the more likely you are to develop heart disease. About 4 out of 5 people who die from coronary heart disease are over the age of 65.substances by fat tissue.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure makes it harder for the heart to pump blood throughout your body.
Diabetes
High blood glucose levels can cause damage to the blood vessels that control your heart
High cholesterol
High levels of cholesterol and other fats can lead to the build-up of fatty plaque on the walls of your blood vessels, blocking blood flow and eventually leading to a heart attack.
Smoking
Smoking causes the blood to clot more and increases blood pressure.
Obesity
Obesity increases the risk of developing hypertension, which in turn increases the workload on the heart. It can also raise your cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart blockages.
Understanding Heart Disease in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, heart disease is commonly referred to as “Hridroga”. The prevalence of heart disease worldwide is largely attributed to an inactive lifestyle and high levels of stress, which lead to an imbalance in the doshas, primarily Vata and Kapha.
Treatment and Management
Treatment options for heart disease aim to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and potentially prolong survival
Medications
To treat symptoms and improve cardiac function, medications such as diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers. and aldosterone antagonists may be administered.
Device therapy.
Pacemakers, implanted cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), and ventricular assist devices (VADs) are examples of implantable devices that can be used to help regulate heart rhythm and improve pumping function.
Heart transplantation
It may be considered in severe cases where other treatments have failed. However, there are a limited number of acceptable donor hearts available, and not all individuals are viable candidates.
Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA
For individuals who are not eligible for transplantation or prefer a non-invasive approach, Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA focuses on symptom management, emotional support, and enhancing quality of life.
