Taking care of your heart is key to preventing several related health issues, including heart attacks, hypertension, strokes, and heart disease. The latter problem is the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S., but can be reversible with a healthy lifestyle and help from a cardiologist. Learn more about this disease here. 

Frequently-Asked Questions About Heart Disease

How does heart disease happen? 

Heart disease is caused by a buildup of plaque in the blood vessels and arteries. Plaque is a waxy substance consisting of cholesterol, minerals, and fatty particles. As this substance accumulates, it prevents the heart from receiving vital oxygen and nutrients. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, which damages arterial walls and makes it easier for plaque to build up. Other risk factors include high cholesterol from a diet high in sugar and bad fats, and smoking that damages arterial walls and sends less oxygen to the heart. A sedentary lifestyle is another risk factor, since exercise lowers cholesterol and reduces blood pressure.

What are the symptoms? 

Heart disease symptoms vary in light of the related condition. Atherosclerosis, or the hardening of blood vessels from plaque deposits, causes shortness of breath, chest pain, numbness, coldness, and arm and leg weakness. Cardiomyopathy, or heart muscle disease, causes bloating, fatigue, shortness of breath, swollen ankles and feet, and a fluttering or pounding pulse rate. Coronary artery disease is another type of heart disease where plaque builds up in the arteries and causes symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest tightness, and low energy. 

How is it treated? 

Treatment for heart disease includes making healthy lifestyle changes that include quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and enjoying a nutrient-dense diet low in bad fats and sugars. Cardiologists may also suggest medication, such as meds that lower blood pressure and cholesterol or improves oxygen flow to the heart by relaxing blood vessels. In extreme cases, cardiologists recommend surgery. Procedures include replacing diseased heart valves with artificial ones, or inserting angioplasty balloons into the coronary arteries to widen sections partially or completely blocked by plaque. 

What can I do to prevent heart disease? 

A healthy lifestyle is key to preventing heart disease, such as maintaining your weight with regular exercise and a well-rounded diet, avoiding tobacco use, and getting restful sleep. Managing stress and drinking in moderation are also key to heart disease prevention. Chronic stress and heavy drinking contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems, such as poor sleep. 

If seeing a cardiologist is right for your heart health, make an appointment at Walton Family Medicine PC in Monroe, GA. This family medicine center provides a comprehensive range of services, including pediatrics and gynecology, and also functions as an urgent care clinic. Call (770) 267-7093 today to schedule your appointment or visit the website for health service details.