The term heart disease actually refers to any of the
diseases that affect the heart or the blood vessels in
the heart. One out of every three American women
dies of heart disease. It is important to understand
heart disease; its symptoms, how to treat it and how to
prevent it.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common heart
disease. It occurs when your arteries become hard and narrow.
This makes it difficult for blood to get to the heart. CAD can
lead to angina. Angina means chest pain. Angina caused by
CAD can feel like pressure in the chest. The pain can
sometimes attack the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, and back.
Many people mistake angina for a heart attack, the sensation is
that severe. CAD can indeed lead to a heart attack. When an
artery is severely blocked and the blood flow to the heart is
interrupted for more than 20 minutes, a heart attack occurs.
Another form of heart disease is a heart arrhythmia. The term
heart arrhythmia means a change in the heart beat, be it slower
(bradycardia) or faster (tachycardia). Sometimes these changes
can be normal (For example when you are excited about
something or as part of the normal aging process). However, if
you frequently notice your heart flutters or races and these
sensations are accompanied by dizziness and shortness of
breath, seek an appointment with a heath care professional.
Another form of heart disease is heart failure. This occurs
when the heart is not able to pump blood properly.
Consequently the bodies other organs do not get enough blood
and cannot function properly. Symptoms of heart failure
include; shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, feet and
ankles, and extreme tiredness.
Taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your
family. See your doctor regularly and tell her if you are
experiencing any of the symptoms of heart disease.
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