Cardiovascular disease: Understanding the silent threat to your heart
January 15, 2019
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, often leading to severe health complications. As Datuk Dr Sanjiv Joshi (pix), a consultant cardiologist at Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, explains, “Cardiovascular is the pipes in the body—it’s the disease of those pipes or arteries supplying blood to the brain and heart.” This systemic issue encompasses the entire vascular system, highlighting the critical need for awareness and understanding of heart health.
Types of cardiovascular disease In Malaysia, obesity is a significant concern, making it the most obese nation in Asia. This alarming statistic directly correlates with the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases. CVD primarily manifests in two major forms: heart disease and strokes. Heart disease Heart disease encompasses various conditions, but it primarily involves blockages in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. Dr Sanjiv emphasizes, “If we have elderly parents, what we are worried about is blockages in one of the three vessels; the coronary arteries.” When blockages occur, it can lead to ischemic heart disease, characterized by reduced blood flow to the heart, potentially resulting in heart attacks. Stroke Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a blockage (ischemic stroke) or by a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). The consequences can be devastating, affecting mobility, speech, and overall quality of life. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms of stroke is crucial for timely intervention. Heart failure Heart failure is another serious condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. There are more than 70 identified causes of heart failure, with the most common in Malaysia being the aftermath of a heart attack. Survivors may experience weakened heart muscle, leading to heart failure. Another cause is non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, where the heart weakens without the presence of blockages. Factors such as arrhythmias—abnormal heart rhythms—can also contribute to heart failure. These arrhythmias may cause the heart to beat too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly, sometimes reaching dangerously high rates. Valve problems The heart contains four valves: the aortic valve, pulmonary valve, tricuspid valve, and mitral valve. Valve issues often arise from stenosis, an abnormal narrowing that impedes blood flow. A stenotic lesion can become clinically significant when it affects blood supply downstream or causes stasis upstream. Diagnosing valvular diseases typically involves stress tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and echocardiograms—ultrasound imaging of the heart. These tests help assess heart function; a normal heart contracts between 59% to 70%. If the contraction rate falls below this threshold, it indicates potential issues. Diagnostic tests Various diagnostic tools are available to evaluate cardiovascular health. A CT scan can identify blockages, while MRI and coronary angiograms provide detailed insights into arterial health. Angioplasty may be performed to open narrowed arteries, restoring blood flow. Surgical procedures Treatment for cardiovascular diseases varies significantly based on the specific condition. For patients with blockages, bypass surgery may be necessary to reroute blood flow. Valve problems may require valvular replacement surgery. Innovative techniques like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) allow for less invasive valve replacements through the arteries. Treatment approaches Effective treatment hinges on the specific cardiovascular issue at hand. For heart failure, management may include lifestyle changes, medications, and possibly surgical interventions. Arrhythmias require targeted treatments to restore normal heart rhythms. Lifestyle factors and prevention Preventive measures play a crucial role in combating cardiovascular diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and adhering to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly reduce the risk of developing CVD. Additionally, avoiding smoking and managing stress are vital for heart health. |
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