Cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of illness and death across the globe. According to the World Health Organization, the number of people dying from these conditions is steadily rising: it now affects nearly 20 million people each year. These diseases often develop gradually and do not always present with obvious symptoms. This is precisely why it is important to be aware of the risks and to take timely action to reduce the likelihood of damage to the heart and blood vessels.

At Doctoronline, we believe that understanding and timely treatment can make a real difference. That is why we provide reliable information, consultation options, and treatment choices tailored to your personal circumstances, always in collaboration with an affiliated doctor.

What are cardiovascular diseases?

Cardiovascular diseases is a collective term for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. Examples include high blood pressure, raised cholesterol levels, and thrombosis. These conditions can interfere with blood circulation or damage the blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Risks, causes, and symptoms of cardiovascular diseases

Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases typically develop as a result of a combination of lifestyle and hereditary factors. Key risk factors include:

  • Smoking
  • Unhealthy diet and being overweight
  • Lack of physical activity
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholestero
  •  Type 2 diabetes- Family history
  • Age- Gender (men are generally at risk earlier, women after menopause.

Causes of cardiovascular diseases

The most common cause is arteriosclerosis (atherosclerosis). In this condition, blood vessels gradually become narrowed due to the build-up of fat and cholesterol in the vessel wall.

Symptoms of cardiovascular diseases

In the early stages, cardiovascular diseases often do not cause any symptoms. Possible signs include:

  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Shortness of breath on exertion
  • Dizziness or tiredness
  • Leg pain when walking (intermittent claudication)

In women, the signs can sometimes be different or less obvious. Symptoms may, for example, radiate to the left shoulder or arm, be accompanied by sweating, nausea, or a pale or greyish complexion. More vague symptoms such as pain in the jaw, neck, back, or upper abdomen, or a feeling of restlessness can also occur.

As these symptoms can also have other causes, it is always important to consult a doctor.

How are cardiovascular diseases treated?

The treatment will depend on the specific condition, its severity, and individual risk factors. A doctor will often recommend making lifestyle changes first, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and stopping smoking.

Sometimes medication is required, for example:

  • Antihypertensives for high blood pressure
  • Cholesterol-lowering medication for high cholesterol
  • Anticoagulants for thrombosis

A doctor can help you decide which treatment is most appropriate. You can request an online consultation for this via Doctoronline.

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