Heart Disease

What is heart disease?

Heart disease is not a single condition, but a term used to describe several heart conditions. Any of the following can be considered a form of heart disease:

• Heart valve disease
• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Arrhythmias
• Congenital heart defects
• Heart infection

The best way to understand your risk level for heart disease and to receive the appropriate screenings is to work with a highly skilled medical team, like Officium Health, for preventive health care. 

How is heart disease treated or managed?

Most forms of heart disease are caused by lifestyle choices. Taking steps to improve your lifestyle habits can not only reduce your risk of developing heart disease, but it’s also a critical part of treating most heart conditions. 

Smoking or other tobacco use is a primary risk factor for heart disease. There are multiple smoking cessation programs that offer outstanding support and results. 

High cholesterol and high blood pressure are also key risk factors for heart disease. Embracing a healthy diet and making time for daily exercise will do wonders for bringing both of these readings down to healthier levels. 

In addition to lifestyle modifications, there are also medications that can help improve your heart health. It often takes a combination of medications to reach the best possible results. In some cases, surgical intervention is needed to preserve heart function. 

What are some signs I might have heart disease?

Chest pain is a primary sign of heart disease, but waiting to take action until this symptom develops can bring further complications. There are numerous other indications that heart disease may be present, including:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Tightness, pressure, or discomfort in your chest
• Pain in the neck, back, jaw, or upper abdomen
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet
• Fainting

Heart attack is also a symptom of heart disease, but it’s important to listen to the messages your body sends and take action before a heart attack occurs. 

If you’d like more information about heart disease or simply want guidance on how to improve your heart health, call Officium Health to schedule a visit, or book online in just a matter of moments.