Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is a broad term that refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death worldwide and is responsible for more deaths than any other disease. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in Nepal, as it is in many countries around the world. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (which include heart disease and stroke) accounted for approximately 30% of all deaths in Nepal in 2019. This is significantly higher than the global average, which is approximately 17%.
Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, diabetes, and a family history of heart disease. Many of these risk factors can be controlled or modified through lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and not smoking.
There are several types of heart disease, and the most common types can vary depending on the population being studied. Here is a list of the top 10 most common types of heart disease:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): This is the most common type of heart disease and occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, leading to a decrease in blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Heart failure: This occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure): This is a condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is consistently higher than normal. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease and other health problems.
- Atrial fibrillation: This is a type of irregular heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke and other complications.
- Valvular heart disease: This occurs when the valves in the heart are damaged or not functioning properly, which can affect the flow of blood through the heart.
- Cardiomyopathy: This is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes weak or stiff, leading to impaired function.
- Heart attack (myocardial infarction): This occurs when a blockage in the coronary arteries causes a reduction in blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to damage or death of heart tissue.
- Aortic aneurysm: This is a ballooning or bulging of the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
- Pulmonary embolism: This occurs when a blood clot becomes lodged in the arteries of the lungs, causing blockage of blood flow and potentially leading to heart damage.
- Cardiac arrest: This is a sudden loss of heart function, often caused by an electrical problem in the heart. It can lead to sudden cardiac death if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of heart disease may include chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare professional for evaluation and treatment. Treatment options for heart disease may include medications, lifestyle changes, and medical procedures such as angioplasty or surgery.
Preventing heart disease is important to maintain a healthy heart and blood vessels. Some steps you can take to reduce your risk of heart disease include:
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Getting regular physical activity
- Not smoking
- Managing stress
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Monitoring and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Getting regular check-ups with a healthcare professional
By taking these steps and working with a healthcare professional, you can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease and improve your overall health.