As the number one killer for both men
and women, it is important that we know the facts about heart disease. The
American Heart Association’s website contains useful information about heart
disease and the many problems related to atherosclerosis, which is the
condition that develops when a substance called plaque builds up in the walls
of the arteries. When this buildup narrows
the arteries, it more difficult for blood to flow through and increases the
chance of a blood clot forming, which can stop blood flow and cause a heart
attack or stroke.
A heart attack occurs when the blood
flow that goes into the heart becomes blocked by a blood clot. The treatment an individual receives depends
on the severity of the heart attack, but for most, medications and lifestyle
changes are prescribed.
The most common type of stroke is an
ischemic stroke and happens when a blood vessel that feeds the brain is blocked
(usually from a blood clot). Uncontrolled
hypertension can result in what is known as a hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs
when a blood vessel in the brain burst.
The AHA states that heart failure, also
called congestive heart failure, is one of the most common causes of
hospitalization for adults 65 years and
older. Heart failure occurs when the
heart is not pumping blood as well as it should and the body’s blood and oxygen
needs are not being met. Left untreated
it can worsen, and individuals with the disease need to be diligent in
following doctor’s orders. Treatment may
include lifestyle changes, medications and surgery.
Other types of cardiovascular disease
are arrhythmia and heart valve problems.
Arrhythmia is the abnormal rhythm of the heart that causes the heart to
beat too slowly, too fast or irregularly.
Stenosis is when the heart valves do not open enough to allow blood to
flow through, and regurgitation is what happens when the heart valves do not
close properly and allow blood to leak through.
Finally mitral valve prolapse is when the valve leaflets bulge or
prolapse back into the upper chamber.
*Our post is for information purposes
only and not a substitute for seeking medical advice.
At SYNERGY HomeCare, we are one of the
most trusted names in home care in Colorado serving the Front Range since 2006.
We have grown to 5 offices and will add 2 more locations in 2015. Our successful growth can be summarized by
one word, "Service". Our
mission is to ensure that every client is treated with the upmost respect and
dignity, and we strive to incorporate those beliefs into all of our home healthcare services. We are available 24/7 to listen to your unique story and provide
you answers to all your questions.
Sources:heart.org/HEARTORG/Caregiver/Resources/WhatisCardiovascularDisease/What-is-Cardiovascular-Disease_UCM_301852_Article.jsp#
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