Ischemtic Heart Disease
Ischemic heart disease is the medical term for a condition more commonly known as coronary artery disease. This condition results when fatty deposits build up along the artery walls, causing damage to the artery. Over time, these deposits narrow the arteries, causing the heart to receive less blood. While ischemic heart disease may take decades to develop or be diagnosed, there are many treatment options as well as prevention techniques to combat the disease.-
Symptoms
-
According to the Mayo Clinic, as the fatty deposits continue to accumulate within coronary arteries, several symptoms may develop that have characteristics of coronary artery disease. Chest pain (angina) is a very common symptom which is a pressure or tightness in the chest cavity. According to rxmed.com, chest pains are usually triggered by physical activity, last no more than a few minutes and are relieved by rest. Shortness of breath is another common symptom. In some cases, a heart attack could happen even without any signs or warnings.
Risk Factors
-
There are many risk factors that may put some people at greater risk for developing ischemic heart disease than others. However, it should be noted that in some cases, ischemic heart disease developed without any classic risk factors. Common risk factors include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol levels, smoking, family history, diabetes, obesity and poor nutrition. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic explains that risk factors often occur in clusters and may build on one another; such as obesity leading to diabetes and high blood pressure. When grouped together, certain risk factors increase the risk of ischemic heart disease.
Diagnosis
-
There are many different tests and diagnosis methods used to identify ischemic heart disease. One of the most common testing methods is using an electrocardiogram, or ECG. According to the Mayo Clinic, an ECG records electrical signals as they travel through the heart. An ECG can be used in the doctor's office, or may be prescribed for holstered, overnight monitoring at home. A stress test is often performed along with an ECG recording. During a stress test, the heart's performance during exercise may be recorded. Another testing method is an echocardiogram, which produces an image of the heart, can show where the arteries are blocked.
Treatment
-
According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment for coronary artery disease usually involves lifestyle changes and, if necessary, drugs and certain medical procedures. Lifestyle changes include quitting smoking, increased exercise, better nutrition and stress reduction. Certain drugs, like aspirin or cholesterol-modifying medications, may be prescribed depending on the severity of the condition. In severe cases, surgery may be required. Two common procedures are angioplasty and coronary artery bypass surgery.
Prevention
-
Because of the nature of ischemic heart disease, some of the same treatment methods can also be used as ways of prevention. Living a lifestyle that includes daily exercise, a balanced diet and stress management can all contribute to prevention of the disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, living a healthy lifestyle can help keep arteries strong, elastic and smooth, and allow for maximum blood flow. Quitting smoking further increases the chances of disease prevention.
-