Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses diseases like coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and more.
CVD is the leading cause of death globally. In the US alone, 1 in 4 deaths is caused by heart disease. Understanding CVD risk factors and prevention methods is crucial for long-term health.
Major risk factors for CVD include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, poor diet, and family history. Many of these are modifiable through lifestyle changes like improving diet, increasing exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
If you are concerned about your CVD risk, schedule an appointment with your doctor and get checked out. They can evaluate your risk factors and recommend screenings or early interventions like cholesterol medication if indicated.
At The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic, we also evaluate hormone imbalances as an underlying contributor to heart disease risk for many patients. Hormones like estrogen, testosterone, thyroid, cortisol and others can impact CVD risk when out of optimal range. Our physicians create fully customized treatment plans to restore hormone balance and support heart health.
Early symptoms of CVD may include shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizzy spells, or swollen legs. However, many people show no signs until a major cardiac event like heart attack or stroke suddenly occurs. That’s why prevention and risk reduction are vital, especially if you have multiple risk factors.
To prevent CVD, the American Heart Association recommends:
Following these tips can dramatically reduce CVD incidence. But for those at high risk or who already have a diagnosis, medications and medical interventions may also be necessary.
At The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic, we take an integrative approach to heart health, addressing nutrition, exercise, stress management AND hormonal balance issues. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our goal is to help patients reduce CVD risk and live longer, healthier lives.