Cardiovascular / Heart Conditions

High Blood Pressure

Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure is identified by a diastolic pressure greater than 90 mmHg and systolic pressure greater than 140 mmHg. While there can be a number of causes for high blood pressure, its development can be compounded by a sedantary lifestyle, smoking and unhealthy eating, which can result in atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries from plaque) and arteriosclerosis (hardening of blood vessels). High blood pressure can be regulated by medicine, exercise and proper eating.

Heart Murmur

Heart murmurs are irregular sounds produced by the heart. They resemble vibrating / swishing sounds when heard through a stethoscope and are caused by the turbulant flow of blood through the heart. This turbulance is typically due to abnormally narrow heart valves (stenosis), backward flow through a valve (regurgitation), or blood passing through the septum that separates the left and right sides of the heart. While some heart murmurs do not require medical attention, more serious cases will necessitate surgury to correct.

Angina Pectoris

Angina pectoris is a condition where the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen. This could be due to the constriction, narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries leading to transient chest pains. Angina pectoris is more likely to surface when under stress, but may be alleviated through nitroglycerin pills, which dialate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the heart. Angina pectoris may be a precursor to a heart attack and immediate medical counsel should be sought.

Myocardial Infarction

More commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when the coronary arteries become obstructed and blood flow to the heart is restricted, leading to the death of heart tissue. A heart attack is life-threatening, extremely painful and requires immediate medical attention. Chest pains, nausea, pale and sweaty skin, irregular pulse and denial may be indications of an oncoming heart attack. Individuals who suffer these symptoms and are susceptible to a heart attack should take nitroglycerin or aspirin (NOT Tylenol or Advil) as blood thinners to relieve pain and possible clots as soon as possible.

Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating or is unable to pump adequate blood to the rest of the body. Immediate life support is needed. CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can be used to maintain blood flow until medical aid arrives or a defibrillator is available to try and restart the heart.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins is a condition where blood pools in a lower limb due to weak or defective valves. Although not life threatening, varicose veins can hinder the blood flow in the affected region. Women and individuals who stand for long periods of time are particularly susceptible to varicose veins. One can take preventative measures by sitting down after an interval of work and by keeping physically active. Severe cases of varicose veins can be treated surgically.

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