Dr. Ravi Kumar Shah

Cardiovascular Disorders (Heart Disease)

Cardiovascular disorders, commonly referred to as heart diseases, include a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These disorders are a leading cause of death worldwide and include conditions such as coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, arrhythmias, hypertension, and heart valve disorders. The most common type, CAD, occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). This can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or sudden cardiac arrest. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and stress. Symptoms may vary but often include shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, dizziness, or swelling in the legs. Diagnosis involves ECG, echocardiography, stress tests, angiography, and blood tests. Treatment depends on the condition and severity but may include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery. Prevention is key and involves regular health checkups, a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Timely diagnosis and proper cardiac care can greatly reduce the risk of complications and improve long-term outcomes.