Understanding Cardiovascular Conditions
Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels. They are the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 1 in 3 deaths.
Cardiovascular disease is mainly caused by atherosclerosis, which is a buildup of plaque inside the artery walls made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances. This plaque accumulation causes the arteries to narrow over time, restricting blood flow to vital organs and tissues. Reduced blood supply can result in heart attack, stroke, and other complications.
The Alarming Impact of Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease remains the #1 cause of death worldwide, taking over 17 million lives annually. In the United States, heart disease accounts for 1 in 4 deaths every year. These sobering statistics spotlight the immense burden of cardiovascular disease and emphasize the critical need for awareness and preventive action. By examining key facts and figures related to cardiovascular conditions, we can grasp the severity of this global health crisis.
Cardiovascular Disease Facts and Stats
- Cardiovascular disease causes over 17.9 million deaths worldwide each year.
- In the U.S., over 697,000 people die from heart disease annually.
- Coronary heart disease kills over 365,000 Americans per year.
- 18.2 million U.S. adults have coronary artery disease.
- Stroke accounts for 1 in 19 U.S. deaths.
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both genders globally.
- Half of U.S. adults have some form of cardiovascular disease.
- Major risk factors include smoking, obesity, poor diet, lack of exercise, hypertension, and diabetes.
- Cardiovascular disease impacts all demographics.
- Annual U.S. costs exceed $353 billion.
When To See a Cardiologist for Cardiovascular Care
Don't delay care if you have a family history of heart disease or stroke. Ongoing monitoring and care are essential. The sooner you address any concerns, the better your outcome can be.
It's also important to seek expert cardiovascular care if you experience any symptoms that may signal an underlying heart or blood vessel condition. You should schedule routine evaluations if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. These factors increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Preventive screening and risk assessment from our cardiologists allow early detection and treatment. Some signs to look out for include:
- Chest pain, tightness, pressure, or discomfort
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Fatigue, weakness, or decreased energy
- Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen
- Irregular, racing, or fluttering heartbeat
- Pain, numbness, cramping, or coldness in limbs
- Severe headaches or confusion
Cardiovascular Conditions We Treat
Our team of experts provides complete diagnosis, treatment, and management for a wide range of cardiovascular diseases including:
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
We offer a multi-treatment approach to coronary artery disease, both treating and slowing the progression of the disease. This approach includes procedures that improve blood flow to the heart such as angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy, and coronary artery bypass surgery referrals. We also utilize both medical therapy and lifestyle modifications, including improvements in diet, optimizing exercise, tobacco cessation, etc. - Heart Failure
Depending on the type and severity of heart failure, our treatments range from medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics to minimally invasive procedures and coordination for advanced therapies such as ventricular assist devices and transplant. We also provide rehabilitation and ongoing monitoring. - Valvular Heart Disease
We repair or replace damaged heart valves causing regurgitation or stenosis. Our structural heart specialists perform transcatheter procedures along with lifelong care. - Arrhythmias
Our electrophysiologists use mapping, ablation catheters, pacemakers, defibrillators, and anti-arrhythmic medications to treat abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), and more. - Hypertension
We help manage high blood pressure through lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and sleep habits combined with medications like diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. - Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Our vascular specialists perform angiograms to locate blockages and provide endovascular treatments like angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy to open up blood flow to the limbs. - Cardiomyopathy
We aim to develop a personalized treatment approach with the goal to increase your heart strength, minimize symptoms, and identify risks, using up-to-date medications and device therapies like CRT. - Congenital Heart Defects
We provide lifelong specialized monitoring and care for congenital conditions, performing catheter-based repairs, coordinating care with cardiac surgeons, and ongoing follow-up.
Finding a Cardiologist Near Me
Caring For Your Cardiovascular Wellness Starts Now
If you've been experiencing heart-related symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, leg swelling, or arrhythmias, don't delay – prioritize your health and request an appointment with our cardiologists today.
Our compassionate team of experts will listen to your needs, understand your goals, and recommend personalized solutions utilizing the latest advancements in cardiovascular medicine. We offer a full spectrum of services including risk assessments, preventive care, medical management of heart disease, advanced diagnostic testing, minimally invasive procedures, and more.