Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the US, fatally affecting more people than cancer, accidents, stroke and even COVID-19. Heart disease can also act silently, causing you to remain unaware of its presence until you experience a heart attack, heart failure or an arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat). That's why regular screening is essential.
In honor of American Heart Month, and just in time for Valentine's Day, now is a great time to schedule a physical exam so your doctor can screen you. There are also high-risk symptoms that may require more frequent screening, and lifestyle changes you can make to prevent heart disease.
What is heart disease?
Heart disease is a general term used to describe several conditions that affect the heart, including but not limited to arrhythmias, valve disease and congenital heart defects. The most common heart disease is coronary artery disease, which impairs the blood vessels, hinders blood flow to the heart and can increase your risk of a heart attack.
Heart disease frequently goes undiagnosed until symptoms of a heart attack or heart failure present themselves. Regular heart disease screenings are essential to help you get ahead of many health scares.
What causes heart disease?
Heart disease can happen at any age. In the case of congenital heart disease, it can happen at birth. Other times, it develops throughout our lives, like coronary artery disease, slowly progressing as plaque builds up. The cause of heart disease will vary depending on the type of condition. Let's focus on coronary heart disease since it's the most common type people experience.
The causes of coronary heart disease are genetics, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. Essentially, your heart has to work harder because things are standing in the way, putting more strain on the organ than necessary. Your heart can only function for so long under excessive stress.
The CDC says that almost half of Americans have at least one of these three risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and smoking. That's why you should get screenings regularly. Now, let's dig into when you should.
Hint: it's before symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pressure or weakness present themselves.
... continue reading