Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. They are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Below are some common cardiovascular diseases along with their symptoms:
Coronary Artery Disease
Cause: Narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup
Symptoms:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Heart attack (in severe cases)
Heart Attack
Cause: Blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle due to a clot
Symptoms:
- Severe chest pain (can radiate to jaw, left arm, or back)
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating and dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
Hypertension
Cause: Increased pressure in arteries due to various factors like genetics, lifestyle, or underlying conditions
Symptoms:
- Often asymptomatic (“silent killer”)
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nosebleeds (in severe cases)
Stroke
Cause: Blockage (ischemic stroke) or rupture (hemorrhagic stroke) of blood vessels in the brain
Symptoms:
- Sudden weakness or numbness (especially on one side of the body)
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Vision problems
- Loss of balance and coordination
Heart Failure
Cause: The heart’s inability to pump blood effectively
Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath (especially when lying down)
- Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet
- Fatigue and weakness
Persistent cough with pink or white mucus
Arrhythmia
Cause: Electrical signal abnormalities in the heart
Symptoms:
- Rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Palpitations (fluttering sensation)
- Dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain (in some cases)
Atrial Fibrillation
Cause: Irregular and rapid heart rhythm leading to poor blood flow
Symptoms:
- Irregular or racing heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Increased risk of stroke
Peripheral Artery Disease
Cause: Narrowing of arteries in the limbs due to plaque buildup
Symptoms:
- Leg pain while walking (claudication)
- Cold or numb feet
- Slow-healing sores on legs or feet
Cardiomyopathy
Cause: Disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder to pump blood
Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in legs and feet
- Fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
Rheumatic Heart Disease
Cause: Damage to heart valves due to rheumatic fever (caused by untreated strep throat)
Symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Swelling in joints
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
When to Seek Medical Help?
Seek emergency care if you experience:
✅ Severe chest pain or pressure
✅ Difficulty breathing
✅ Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side)
✅ Confusion or trouble speaking