Coronary Heart Disease is an impairment of heart functions due to inadequate blood flow to the heart. Coronary heart disease is a major cause of premature death in several countries across the world. The heart governs the circulatory system and nourishes the whole body. But the heart itself needs blood supply for proper functioning and this is delivered by a pair of coronary arteries. Over a period of time due to the deposition of fatty material and plaque, they get narrowed. This results in a condition called atherosclerosis characterized by inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle.
Symptoms
Dyspnoea or shortness of breath, angina or chest pain, heart attack, dizziness, swelling of legs and ankles, palpitations and irregular heart beat.
Risk factors
Coronary heart disease can occur at any age and it is worldwide in distribution. The principal risk factors are smoking, hypertension, genetic factors, raised serum cholesterol, diabetes, alcohol consumption, obesity, physical inactivity, hormone imbalance, persistent stress condition, etc.
Diagnosis
ECG, Coronary angiography/arteriography, Echocardiogram, Nuclear scan, Electron-beam CT, chest x-ray, etc
Control and preventive measures
- Heart-healthy dietary changes including reduction of fat, salt and cholesterol intake and increased consumption of fruits and vegetables
- Quitting smoking and alcohol consumption
- Control of high blood pressure and diabetes
- Regular physical activity and exercises should be part of normal daily life
- Avoid emotional stress as far as possible
0 comments:
Post a Comment