Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to diseases of the heart and the blood vessel system (arteries, capillaries, veins) within a person's body. This includes coronary heart disease, angina, stroke, high blood pressure, and heart failure.

A heart attack is caused in part by narrowed or blocked arteries that result in a decreased supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. The more time that passes without treatment, the greater the damage to the heart. Heart disease is Ohio's leading cause of death for both men and women.

Modifiable Risk Factors for Heart Disease

o        High cholesterol

o        Overweight and obesity

o        Physical inactivity

o        Cigarette smoking 

o        Uncontrolled high blood pressure

o        Uncontrolled diabetes

Non-modifiable risk factors for heart disease

These risk factors cannot be changed but are important characteristics that should be considered when evaluating a person's risk. These include:

  o    Increasing age

 o Family history of heart disease

 o Race/ethnicity

 o Sex 

Warning signs of a heart attack

It is important for you to recognize the warning signs of a heart attack because the more time that passes without treatment, the greater the damage to the heart. These signs include:

o        Chest discomfort –Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the middle of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

o        Discomfort in the upper body –Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
 

o        Shortness of breath – This comes with chest discomfort but it also can also happen before chest discomfort.
 

o        Other signs – This includes breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness.

The signs may be mild or severe. If you or someone you know is having any of these signs call 9-1-1 to get help right away!

                                                       Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention / Links