Symptoms of Heart Disease
may vary from virtually none, to sudden death being
the first sign. This may be the first sign of Heart
disease in as many as 1/4 patients.
Chest Pain or Pressure:
This is called angina, typically
in the mid-chest may radiate down the left or right
arm or into the jaw. Usually presents with activity
and may resolve with rest.
Shortness of Breath or Tired:
Some people notice that they are just not as active,
or don't have the energy they used too. This can be
a sign that the heart muscle is lacking oxygen &
nutrients. Gasping for air or shortness of breath
can be a symptom of heart failure or valvular insufficiency.
Indigestion:
Many people are fooled into believing that they are
having stomach problems rather than from their heart.
Careful examination can differentiate the two.
Ankle Swelling: When the
heart isn't pumping at maximum efficiency, fluid can
back-up in the body causing it to accumulate in the
legs & lungs. Trouble breathing and leg swelling
can result. Examination should determine the cause.
If you experience the above symptoms,
it is recommended you see your family physician to find
if further testing is recommended.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Positive Family History:Having
someone in your family with Heart Disease increases
your chance of developing it. The younger the people
are that develop it, increases your risk.
Age: Risk
increases with age.
Male Gender: Women
can develop Heart Disease equally postmenopausal.
Hypertension:
High blood pressure can be very
dangerous. It is important to keep your blood pressure
below 140/90. Long term it can be damaging to many
organs in our bodies.
Physical Inactivity: Exercise
as well as a sensible diet are essential to a healthy
life. After all we're not only what we eat, but also
what we do. The American Heart Association recommends
walking at least one mile a day to maintain cardiovascular
health.
Cigarette Smoking: Not only
is this damaging to our lungs, it can significantly
increase one's chances of developing Heart Disease.
Diabetes Mellitus: High
Blood Sugar is very damaging to arteries particularly
the smaller ones in the Heart. It can also affect
the kidneys, eyes, brain and legs. It is crucial for
Diabetic patients to take an active part in their
case & understand the disease as much as possible.
High Cholesterol: Risk increases
with higher Triglycerides, LDL, and Total Cholesterol
levels. It also increases with lower HDL level which
is our protective cholesterol. THis should be checked
yearly.
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