Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
• Statistically half of us (53%) are going to die from this disease (leading cause of death worldwide))
• CVD are diseases of the heart and blood vessels o includes atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke
• Narrowing of blood vessels as they are filling up with plaque
Function of the heart
• 4 chambers/valves controlled by leaflets
• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) caused by the building up of plaque leading to a heart attack
• 2 pumps in one
Definitions:
Atherosclerosis: the clogging and narrowing of the arterial walls with deposits of fat, cholesterol and other compounds known as plaque
Ischemia: inadequate blood flow due to constriction/blockage of an artery, resulting in oxygen supply < oxygen demand
Thrombus: A blood clot formed within the vascular system of the body and impeding blood flow.
Manifestations of CVD:
• Angina Pectoris: possible areas of radiating pain: neck, jaw, upper abdomen, shoulders and arms
• Myocardial Infarction: heart attack. Can be prevented by taking low doses of aspirin
• Stroke: Occurs when brain is starved of oxygen due to pieces of plaque braking free and causing clots. Warning signs: half of the face droops, can only raise one arm.
• Arrhythmias: heart is defibrillating. Defibrillation – AED (automated external) vs. IED (implanted)
Diagnosis/Treatment for CVD
• Diagnosis o Exercise stress test o Echocardiogram, angiogram
• Treatment for Ischemia o Angioplasty, PCI, CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft) to restore supply o Exercise training, medications to lower demand
• Lifestyle changes o Healthy diet and regular exercise o Steps to lower inflammation o Risk factor modification
Risk Factors for CVD
1. Age
i. Men: 45 years and older ii. Women: 55 years and older (estrogen, better cholesterol)
2. Family history of CVD
i. Father/brother with CVD before age 55 ii. Mother/sister with CVD before age 65
3. Tobacco