DEFINING HEART DISEASE

The term heart disease actually refers to any of the diseases that affect the heart or the blood vessels in the heart. One out of every three American women dies of heart disease. It is important to understand heart disease; its symptoms, how to treat it and how to prevent it.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common heart disease. It occurs when your arteries become hard and narrow. This makes it difficult for blood to get to the heart. CAD can lead to angina. Angina means chest pain. Angina caused by CAD can feel like pressure in the chest. The pain can sometimes attack the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, and back. Many people mistake angina for a heart attack, the sensation is that severe. CAD can indeed lead to a heart attack. When an artery is severely blocked and the blood flow to the heart is interrupted for more than 20 minutes, a heart attack occurs.

Another form of heart disease is a heart arrhythmia. The term heart arrhythmia means a change in the heart beat, be it slower (bradycardia) or faster (tachycardia). Sometimes these changes can be normal (For example when you are excited about something or as part of the normal aging process). However, if you frequently notice your heart flutters or races and these sensations are accompanied by dizziness and shortness of breath, seek an appointment with a heath care professional.

Another form of heart disease is heart failure. This occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood properly. Consequently the bodies other organs do not get enough blood and cannot function properly. Symptoms of heart failure include; shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, feet and ankles, and extreme tiredness.

Taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your family. See your doctor regularly and tell her if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of heart disease.