Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States. It is a condition that affects the heart and blood vessels. Heart disease can lead to a heart attack, which occurs when the blood supply to the heart is blocked.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
The symptoms of heart disease can vary depending on the type of heart disease. Some common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Pain in the arms, neck, back, or jaw
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
There are a number of risk factors for heart disease, including:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of heart disease
Preventing Heart Disease
There are a number of things you can do to prevent heart disease, including:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
- Managing your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Getting regular checkups
Treating Heart Disease
There are a number of treatments for heart disease, depending on the type of heart disease. Some common treatments include:
- Medications
- Surgery
- Lifestyle changes
Living with Heart Disease
If you have heart disease, there are a number of things you can do to manage your condition and live a long and healthy life. Some tips include:
- Taking your medications as prescribed
- Following your doctor’s orders
- Making healthy lifestyle changes
- Getting regular checkups
Additional Information
For more information on heart disease, please visit the following websites:
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
- American Heart Association
- Mayo Clinic