Cardiovascular disease impacts the heart and essential blood vessels, which includes the arteries, veins and capillaries. There are other areas of the body that are directly affected by cardiovascular disease, including the brain and kidneys.
Cardiovascular Disease Symptoms
The most common signs of cardiovascular disease involve problems in the chest area. Pain, tightness, shortness of breath or a feeling of extreme pressure could point to some form of cardiovascular disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a specialist immediately.
It is also worth noting that symptoms do not always present around the heart. Cardiovascular disease can result in pain in the neck, jaw, throat and even the abdomen. Similarly, pains or unusual feelings, such as numbness in the legs, may indicate you are suffering from cardiovascular disease.
Common Causes of Cardiovascular Disease
There are a lot of potential causes of cardiovascular disease, so it is important to consult with a specialist if you have any concerns. Common causes are usually fairly easy to determine, for someone who has the experience and training to provide a diagnosis based on your medical history and genetics.
If you were born with a heart defect or have a genetic predisposition towards cardiovascular disease, at the Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center, we can confirm whether it has resulted in the ill health you are experiencing. Other causes may include coronary artery disease, heavy smoking, excessive drug abuse, stress or diabetes.
Modifying Risk Factors
In order to truly get to the heart of cardiovascular disease, we need to think about the way we live. Prevention is always the best cure, so taking steps to avoid cardiovascular disease since childhood is always encouraged at the Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center. A healthy diet and exercise is especially important for children, but adults should also continue this good practice to ensure a healthy heart.
Other bad habits to avoid are drug and alcohol abuse, smoking, and stress. If you can eliminate some or all of the factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease you have a much better chance of living a full and healthy life.
If you would like more information on cardiovascular disease or fear you are at risk, call the Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center today for advice or to arrange a professional consultation. We are compassionate and willing to listen to your fears without condemnation. You will find our team friendly and welcoming on each and every visit.