5.1 Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke

Cardiovascular diseases and stroke are major health concerns, affecting millions worldwide. These conditions stem from problems with the heart and blood vessels, often due to lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention of heart disease and stroke is crucial for maintaining good health. By making smart choices and knowing the warning signs, we can reduce our risk and improve our overall well-being.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease

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• Atherosclerosis involves buildup of plaque in artery walls, narrowing blood vessels
  • Plaque consists of cholesterol, fatty substances, and cellular waste products
  • Gradually restricts blood flow to organs and tissues
• Coronary artery disease results from atherosclerosis in heart arteries
  • Reduces oxygen-rich blood supply to heart muscle
  • Can lead to angina (chest pain) or heart attack
• Risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol levels
• Diagnosis often involves stress tests, coronary angiography, or cardiac CT scans

Myocardial Infarction and Arrhythmia

• Myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attack, occurs when blood flow to heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked
  • Usually caused by complete blockage of a coronary artery
  • Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea
  • Immediate medical attention crucial to minimize heart muscle damage
• Arrhythmia refers to irregular heartbeats or abnormal heart rhythms
  • Types include tachycardia (too fast), bradycardia (too slow), and fibrillation (chaotic)
  • Can be caused by heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or medications
  • Symptoms range from palpitations to dizziness and fainting
  • Treatment options include medications, cardioversion, or implantable devices (pacemakers)

Stroke

Types and Causes of Stroke

• Stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced
  • Ischemic stroke results from blocked blood vessel (accounts for ~87% of strokes)
  • Hemorrhagic stroke caused by bleeding in or around the brain
  • Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or "mini-stroke" involves temporary blockage
• Risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes
• Symptoms follow FAST acronym: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services

Hypertension and Cholesterol in Stroke Risk

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) significantly increases stroke risk
  • Defined as blood pressure consistently above 130/80 mmHg
  • Damages and weakens blood vessel walls over time
  • Managed through medication, diet changes, and regular exercise
• Cholesterol plays a role in stroke risk through atherosclerosis
  • High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol contribute to plaque buildup
  • HDL ("good") cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from bloodstream
  • Optimal total cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL
  • Lifestyle changes and medications (statins) can help manage cholesterol levels

Prevention and Management

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

• Modifiable risk factors can be controlled or changed
  • Include smoking, physical inactivity, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption
  • Addressing these factors significantly reduces disease risk
• Non-modifiable risk factors cannot be changed
  • Include age, gender, family history, and ethnicity
  • Help identify individuals who may need more aggressive preventive measures
• Metabolic syndrome increases cardiovascular disease risk
  • Characterized by combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat

Lifestyle Modifications and Preventive Measures

• Regular physical activity reduces cardiovascular disease risk
  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week
  • Includes activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling
• Healthy diet crucial for cardiovascular health
  • Mediterranean diet and DASH diet shown to be beneficial
  • Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
• Stress management techniques help reduce risk
  • Includes meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular relaxation
• Regular health screenings aid in early detection and prevention
  • Blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and diabetes screenings
• Medications may be prescribed for high-risk individuals
  • Includes statins for cholesterol management and antihypertensives for blood pressure control