Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women worldwide? According to the American College of Cardiology (ACC), one out of four recorded mortalities worldwide are attributed to coronary heart disease. These include approximately 370,000 individuals who die annually due to heart disease. Unfortunately, only more than 25 percent of this population is aware of the primary symptoms of heart attacks, which leads to increased mortality after the incident. Therefore, ACC emphasizes the importance of frequent cardiology consultations in Castle Dale to prevent irreversible complications of heart disease.
What Is Coronary Heart Disease?
This is the most prevalent cardiovascular problem worldwide. This condition is characterized by occlusion of at least one vessel that supplies blood to the heart. In turn, this decreases the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue of the heart. This eventually leads to tissue damage and death, which impairs the normal pumping function of the heart.
What Causes Coronary Heart Disease?
Coronary heart disease may occur due to several factors. However, the most common precipitating factor is plaque formation due to excessive fat deposit in the vessels that supply blood to the heart. It occurs when excess fat accumulates in the body, which reduces the diameter of arteries that transport blood. As a result, circulation becomes restricted due to the narrow passageway of blood into the heart.
What Increases Your Risk of Coronary Heart Disease?
Modifiable risk factors such as smoking, high-fat diet, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles more significantly contribute to the development of arterial plaques. Other co-morbid illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and atrial fibrillation must also be controlled through regular medication intake to reduce the risk of heart disease.
How Is Coronary Heart Disease Treated?
Management of coronary heart disease depends on the location, severity, and timing of heart attacks. Early recognition is the hallmark in reducing morbidity caused by the disease. Blood thinners are initially given to dissolve clots and reduce plaque size. Oxygen support is given to promote airflow that is crucial in the normal functioning of the heart. Beta blocker medications are also started to temporarily reduce heart rate and muscle contraction. If a heart attack is detected early, thrombolytic drugs may be given to lessen the plaque and restore normal circulation.
Morbidity and mortality rates due to cardiovascular disease have been consistently rising over the past decade. Statistics show that every 40 seconds, at least one American experiences a heart attack. Due to the growing incidence of cardiovascular problems worldwide, it is crucial to have regular consultations with a cardiologist to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of coronary heart disease.
