Last updated on Friday, 21, August, 2020

The heart is the most vital organ in the body supplying blood to different parts of it. But like any other body part, it also needs special care to avoid heart diseases that can lead to serious complications (and in some cases to death).

Around the globe, estimated17.3 million people die from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The situation is not getting better since the researches suggest that by 2030, almost 23.6 million people will die from CVDs. It also suggests that low-income countries are more affected than high-income ones.

Types of Heart Diseases

It’s difficult to list all types of heart diseases in a single list but mainly, the following are the most common types of heart diseases.

• Arrhythmia: The heart rhythm abnormality.
• Atherosclerosis: The hardening of arteries.
• Cardiomyopathy: The hardening in the growth of heart muscles.
• Congenital heart defects: Heart irregularities from birth.
• Coronary artery disease (CAD): The buildup of plaque in the heart’s arteries.
• Heart infections: Caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Causes

Although every single heart disease has its separate classification in terms of symptoms and causes, there are few general events, actions, and practices, that can lead to heart diseases that are most common.

Following is a list of those actions or events that generally lead to any heart disease.

• High Blood Pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Excessive use of alcohol
• Drugs
• Stress
• Mental Health
• Physical inactivity
• Cholesterol levels
• Hypertension

Symptoms

It’s better to educate one’s self regarding the diseases so one can observe and notice when things go wrong. This makes it easier to take action to avoid serious complications. A few symptoms of heart diseases are given below:

• Dizziness
• Chest Pain
• Jaw Pain
• Arm Pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue

Prevention

Taking proper care of the heart is not too difficult or expensive. Actually, the heart is related to all parts of the body and a serious complication in one of these can make a person ill with one of the heart diseases. However, a few habits and tips can prevent these and reduce the chances to a safe level.

• Eat healthily. Diet is important when talking about health. Take more nutrients and less manufactured products.
• Physical Activity. Our muscles, veins, and arteries require appropriate exercise to stay functional and work properly which is crucial for heart health.
• Quit Smoking. There is no other alternative. Smoking kills and affects your heart the most.
• Practice Hygiene. Hygiene keeps us away from various other diseases that can directly increase the chances of heart diseases.
• Knowledge is power. Know your blood pressure, lipids levels, and blood sugar levels. A required check on these levels will keep you informed about your health condition so you can take necessary steps when needed.
• Consult a Cardiologist. There is no alternative to a complete doctor check. If you can’t visit physically, talk to a cardiologist through the Instacare telemedicine portal, and get yourself checked while staying at home.

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