Heart and Cardio Support
Your heart depends on the flow of blood through the arteries, but cardiovascular disease can inhibit this when there is a narrowing in the walls due to a build up of plaque. This restricts the blood flow to the heart and clots can form causing stroke or heart attack. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every four deaths in this country is caused by heart disease. Heart and cardio support starts with healthy lifestyle changes, proper nutrition and exercise, and learning about risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular Disease
Heart Attack - When blood cannot flow freely through the heart or a blood clot cuts off the blood supply entirely to the muscle, a heart attack occurs. Depending on the degree of damage to the heart and the arteries leading to and from the organ, medications, surgery and lifestyle changes may be advised by a medical professional.
Ischemic Stroke - This is the most common kind of stroke that occurs as a result of a blocked blood vessel to the brain. This may be from a blood clot. When the brain is deprived of its blood supply, cells begin to die and certain functions such as, walking and talking may become impaired.
Heart Failure - Sometimes referred to as “congestive heart failure”, this means that the heart is not pumping blood efficiently and the body is not getting adequate circulation of blood and oxygen.
Arrhythmia - This refers to an abnormal heart rhythm, which can be too fast, too slow, or irregular altogether.
Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Problems
These may include:
• Family history
• Age
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• Physical inactivity
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Diet
• Overuse of alcohol
• High blood pressure
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