Heart disease is the most common health problem in the United States but is also the most preventable. The four most familiar conditions are not always diagnosed until a person shows signs or symptoms. Knowing how the diseases happen can be beneficial to sustaining a healthy life.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common heart disease and is also referred to as ischemic heart disease. CAD is caused when there is a buildup of plaque in the artery walls, which causes the pathway to narrow over time until it completely blocks the blood supply from reaching the heart or other areas.
- A heart attack is also called myocardial infarction and is caused when part of the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen from the blood. This is due to the coronary arteries having a buildup of cholesterol-made plaque along the artery walls. Once the plaque breaks off, a blood clot begins to form around it and reduce or block the artery’s flow. The longer blood flow is impeded, the more damage happens to the organ.
- Arrhythmias all have a common characteristic of irregular or fast/slow heartbeats. The erratic beats can affect either the ventricle or atrial parts of the heart. Some are more severe than others and can lead to a stroke or other serious health problems.
- Heart failure is also called congestive heart failure. This is due to the muscle being stretched out or thickened and weakening, making it difficult to pump blood correctly. Other conditions that can lead to congestive heart failure are coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or past heart attacks.
Here at Evergreen Senior Living Chillicothe, we understand heart health is important for all our residents. We strive to give your loved one the best care possible and provide the necessities to maintain healthy living. Contact Evergreen Senior Living today to learn about how we help keep hearts healthy with diet, exercise, and access to nearby medical professionals.
