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Cardiovascular disease encompasses a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The major forms of cardiovascular disease include coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Coronary artery disease occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients become narrowed or blocked, leading to chest pain or a heart attack. Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, leading to brain damage and potentially permanent disability. Peripheral artery disease occurs when the blood vessels outside of the heart and brain become narrowed or blocked, leading to pain and numbness in the limbs.
The underlying physiological processes of these diseases involve a combination of factors, including atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation. These factors can lead to damage and dysfunction of the blood vessels and the heart, ultimately leading to the development of cardiovascular disease.
Several ways in which these diseases are diagnosed include imaging tests such as angiography and echocardiography, blood tests to measure cholesterol and other markers of heart health, and electrocardiograms to assess the heart's electrical activity. Additionally, stress tests and cardiac catheterization may be used to evaluate the function of the heart and blood vessels.
Treatment for cardiovascular disease often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures. Lifestyle changes may include adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress. Medications such as statins, blood pressure medications, and blood thinners may be prescribed to manage risk factors and prevent complications. In some cases, medical procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow to the heart or other affected areas. Overall, early detection and management of cardiovascular disease are crucial for preventing complications and improving outcomes.