“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. CVD is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for over 17 million deaths each year.
The main risk factors for CVD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. Other risk factors include age, gender, family history, and ethnicity.
Symptoms of CVD can vary depending on the type of disease but may include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, and swelling in the legs or ankles. However, some people with CVD may not experience any symptoms.
Treatment for CVD may include lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking, as well as medications such as statins, blood pressure-lowering drugs, and blood thinners. In some cases, procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery may be necessary.
Prevention is key in managing CVD. This includes managing risk factors through lifestyle changes and medication, as well as regular screening and monitoring for early detection and treatment of CVD.