Heart diseases are serious health problems caused by structural abnormalities of the heart, vascular blockages, or functional issues with the valves. These diseases, which are among the most common causes of death today, can negatively affect quality of life and lifespan if not detected and treated early.
The Importance of Heart Diseases for Public Health
According to World Health Organization data, millions of people die each year due to heart disease-related causes. Especially in developing countries, the increase in lifestyle-related risk factors is raising the incidence of these diseases. Factors such as obesity, inactivity, unhealthy diet, diabetes, and hypertension directly threaten heart health.
Early symptoms of heart diseases are often unnoticed or attributed to other causes. Therefore, symptoms such as chest pain, easy fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations, and fainting should not be taken lightly, and a cardiologist should be consulted.
Aortic Vascular Diseases
Problems with the aortic vessel usually occur due to high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, or genetic predisposition. These life-threatening diseases generally require surgical intervention. Sudden onset of back or chest pain can be a harbinger of these vascular diseases.
Coronary Artery Diseases
Narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries causes the heart to receive insufficient oxygen. Heart attack is one of the most serious consequences of this condition. Factors such as stress, high cholesterol, and smoking accelerate the progression of the disease. Diagnostic methods include ECG, stress test, and angiography.
Heart Valve Diseases
Valve diseases can sometimes be congenital or develop with advanced age. Deterioration of the valves reduces the heart’s pumping power, making it unable to meet the body’s oxygen needs. These diseases generally progress over time, and the treatment plan varies depending on the type of valve affected.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Most heart diseases can be prevented or their progression slowed with lifestyle changes. Therefore, healthy eating, regular exercise, avoiding stress, and abstaining from tobacco products are of great importance. Additionally, individuals with a family history should not neglect routine heart check-ups.
It should be remembered that each heart disease can progress differently and requires a personalized treatment plan. Therefore, consulting a specialist physician is the right step.
For more detailed content with up-to-date information, you can check out the aortic vascular diseases, coronary artery diseases, and heart valve diseases sections in our blog.
