Do You Have Heart Problems?
Heart problems or heart disease can include a variety of medical conditions including congenital heart defects, abnormal heart rhythm and diseases of blood vessels. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Both men and women become victims of heart problems and heart disease. Heart disease is responsible for up to forty percent of all deaths in the United States. The Mayo Clinic reports: “Women are six times as likely to die of heart disease as of breast cancer. Heart disease kills more women over 65 than do all cancers combined”. In addition, more women than men die from heart disease.
The symptoms of heart problems and heart disease are different in men and women. Symptoms of heart disease in men can include chest pain and shortness of breath. Women may report symptoms such as: fatigue, abdominal pain, discomfort in the upper back, neck and shoulders, sweating, nausea or vomiting, dizziness.
There are a variety of heart problems and forms of heart disease; many of which can be prevented with a healthy diet and exercise. Some treatments of heart problems include reduced sodium intake, cessation of smoking, taking prescription medications, and even surgery.
Heart problems may be due to genetics, lifestyle (including smoking), diabetes, high blood pressure, congenital heart defects, injury to the heart muscle, pre-existing medical conditions (such as chronic kidney disease) and other factors.
Cited References:
Mayo Clinic
Google Health
FacetoFace Health Heart Defects and Diseases Support Group