What is heart disease?
Heart disease is a broad medical term that includes any condition that affects the function or structure of the heart and its blood vessels.
Your heart is a strong pumping muscle that delivers oxygen-rich blood to all the organs, tissues, and cells in your body. It’s made up of two parts and four chambers.
Any problem with the structure or function of your heart affects the health of your entire body. Heart disease is a serious health issue and the leading cause of death of Americans.
What are some types of heart disease?
There are many types of heart disease. These include:
Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is an abnormal heartbeat. Your heart may beat too fast, too slowly, or irregularly. An arrhythmia may be an acute condition or a chronic health issue.
Heart failure
Heart failure means your heart isn’t strong enough to pump oxygen-rich blood throughout your body.
Cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease includes conditions that block the blood vessels in your heart and lead to a heart attack or angina (chest pain).
Valvular disease
Valvular disease means the valves that separate the chambers of your heart aren’t working like they should. This affects the heart rhythm and may place strain on your heart muscle.
Heart defects
Heart defects include any abnormalities in the structure of your heart. Some people are born with heart defects, while others may develop a defect from some outside cause, such as an infection.
How is heart disease diagnosed?
Family Medical Doctors is a full-service pulmonary and internal medicine practice that offers brand new technology to assist in the diagnosis of chronic health conditions like heart disease.
During your exam, your provider reviews your symptoms, medical history, family history, and then performs a physical.
How is heart disease treated?
Your provider at Family Medical Doctors customizes your treatment plan for heart disease based on the underlying cause, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health.
Your treatment plan may include:
- A heart-healthy diet
- An exercise program
- A stress management plan
- Disease-specific medication (hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol)
- Weight loss
- Smoking cessation
The Family Medical Doctors team provides chronic disease management and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your heart and the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
Heart disease is common and can be deadly. But heart disease can be managed when you have the help and support you need. For compassionate care, call Family Medical Doctors or request an appointment online today.
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