Heart of heart: prevention of cardiovascular diseases

Heart of heart: prevention of cardiovascular diseases

I. Understanding the cardiovascular system and disease

1. Anatomy and the physiology of the heart: The heart is a muscle organ located in the chest between the lungs. Its main function is to pump blood throughout the body, ensuring the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells and waste removal. The heart consists of four chambers: two atrial (upper) and two ventricles (lower). The right atrium receives blood from the body, poor oxygen, and directs it into the right ventricle. The right ventricle pumps this blood into the lungs, where oxygen is saturated. The blood enriched with oxygen is returned to the left atrium, and then enters the left ventricle. The left ventricle, the most powerful part of the heart, pumps blood through the aorta to all organs and tissues.

   a. Atrial: The upper heart chambers responsible for blood collection from veins. B. Ventricles: The lower heart chambers responsible for pumping blood into arteries. C. Heart valves: Four valves (mitral, tricuspid, aortic and pulmonal) provide a unidirectional flow of blood through the heart, preventing reverse current. D. Coronary arteries: These blood vessels supply the heart itself with the blood necessary for its work. They begin at the base of the aorta and branch, providing blood for all areas of the heart muscle.

2. Blood vessels: The blood system consists of three main types of blood vessels:

   a. Arteries: Vessels carrying blood from the heart to organs and tissues. They have thick, elastic walls that can withstand high pressure. B. Vienna: Vessels carrying blood back to the heart. They have thinner walls than arteries, and contain valves that prevent the reverse flow of blood. C. Capillaries: The smallest blood vessels connecting arteries and veins. Through the thin walls of the capillaries there is an exchange of oxygen, nutrients and waste between the blood and cells.

3. The main types of cardiovascular diseases (SVP): SSZ is a wide term covering various diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels.

   a. Corny heart (coronary heart disease): The most common type of CVD occurs due to narrowing of the coronary arteries, usually caused by atherosclerosis. This leads to insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle and can cause angina pectoris (chest pain) or myocardial infarction (heart attack). B. Atherosclerosis: A process in which cholesterol, fats and other substances accumulate on the walls of arteries, forming plaques. These plaques narrow the lumen of the arteries, limiting blood flow and increasing the risk of blood clots. C. Myocardial infarction (heart attack): It occurs when one or more coronary arteries are suddenly blocked by a thrombus, depriving part of the heart muscle of oxygen. This leads to damage and death of the cells of the heart muscle. D. Stroke: It occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, either due to blocking the artery with a thrombus (ischemic stroke), or due to rupture of the artery (hemorrhagic stroke). E. Heart failure: A condition in which the heart cannot effectively pump blood to satisfy the needs of the body. This can be caused by various factors, including coronary heart disease, hypertension and heart valves. f. Arrhythmias: Cardial rhythm disturbances that can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia) or irregular. G. Heart valves: Damage or improper functioning of the heart valves, leading to impaired blood flow. h. Congenital heart defects: Defects of the structure of the heart present at birth. I. Diseases of the peripheral arteries (BPA): The narrowing of the arteries that supply the limbs, most often legs.

II. Risk factors of cardiovascular disease

1. Unhanged risk factors: Factors that we cannot influence.

   a. Age: The risk of the SPA increases with age. B. Floor: Men, as a rule, are at greater risk of SVD than women, especially to menopause. However, after menopause, the risk for women increases. C. Family history: The presence of SVD in a family history (especially in close relatives) increases the risk of developing the disease. D. Racial and ethnicity: Some ethnic groups have a higher risk of SVD.

2. Changed risk factors: Factors that we can influence by changing your lifestyle or using medicines.

   a. High blood pressure (hypertension): Increased pressure on the walls of the arteries over time damages them, increasing the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure and other SVDs. Normal blood pressure is usually less than 120/80 mm Hg. Art. I. Primary (essential) high blood pressure: The most common type, the cause of which is often unknown, but is associated with genetic factors, lifestyle and age. II. Secondary high blood pressure: It is caused by another disease, such as kidney disease, endocrine disorders or the use of certain drugs.

   b. High blood cholesterol: The high level of “poor” cholesterol (low density lipoproteins, LDL) contributes to the formation of plaques in the arteries. The high level of “good” cholesterol (high density lipoproteins, HDL) helps to remove cholesterol from arteries. I. LDL (low density lipoproteins): Often called “poor” cholesterol, as it contributes to the formation of plaques. II. HDL (high density lipoproteins): Often called “good” cholesterol, as it helps to remove LDL from arteries. III. Triglycerides: Another type of fat in the blood, the high level of which can also increase the risk of SVD.

   c. Smoking: Smoking damages the walls of arteries, increases blood pressure, reduces the level of HDL and increases the risk of blood clots. Refusal of smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of SVD. D. Diabetes sugar: Diabetes damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and diseases of the peripheral arteries. Blood sugar is crucial to reduce this risk. I. Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys cells that produce insulin in the pancreas. II. Type 2 diabetes: The most common type of diabetes in which the body does not use insulin properly (insulin resistance) or does not produce enough insulin.

   e. Obesity and overweight: Obesity is associated with increased blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and other risk factors of the CVD. I. Body mass index (BMI): An indicator used to assess human weight regarding its height. BMI from 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and BMI 30 and above is considered obesity. II. The waist circumference: The measurement of the waist circumference can also be a useful indicator of the risk of the CVD. In women, the waist circumference is more than 88 cm and in men more than 102 cm are associated with increased risk.

   f. Insufficient physical activity: The lack of physical activity increases the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, high level of cholesterol and diabetes. Regular physical exercises help reduce these risks. G. Inal meals: A high content of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, salt and sugar increases the risk of SSZ. A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low -fat proteins, helps to reduce this risk. h. Chronic stress: Long -term stress can increase blood pressure, increase the risk of blood clots and contribute to unhealthy behavior, such as smoking and overeating. I. Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure, increase the level of triglycerides and contribute to heart failure.

III. Preventive measures: Changing lifestyle

1. Healthy nutrition: A balanced and nutrient diet is the cornerstone of the SSZ prevention.

   a. Reducing saturated and trans fats: These fats increase the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol. They are found in red meat, processed foods, fried foods and some dairy products. B. Increased consumption of unsaturated fats: Mononasized (olive oil, avocados, nuts) and polyunsaturated fats (omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish, linen seed and walnuts) are especially useful. They help reduce LDL level and increase the level of HDL. C. Cholesterol restriction: Although dietary cholesterol has a lesser effect on blood cholesterol than saturated fats, moderate consumption is still recommended. D. Increase in fiber consumption: Fiber helps reduce cholesterol and control blood sugar. Contained in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. E. Sodium (salt) consumption reduction: High consumption of sodium increases blood pressure. It is recommended to limit salt consumption up to 2300 mg per day (about 1 teaspoon). f. Sugar consumption reduction: Excessive sugar consumption is associated with obesity, diabetes and a high level of triglycerides. G. Increase in fruits and vegetable consumptions: Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, which are useful for the health of the heart. Try to eat at least 5 servings per day. h. Consumption of low -fat proteins: Choose low -fat sources of protein, such as fish, a bird without skin, legumes and tofu. I. Whole grains: Replace processed grains (white bread, white rice) with whole grains (brown rice, whole grain bread, oatmeal), which are rich in fiber and nutrients. J. Moderate alcohol consumption (if applicable): If you drink alcohol, do it moderately. For women, this means no more than one drink per day, and for men – no more than two.

2. Regular physical activity: Exercises strengthen the heart, reduce blood pressure, increase the level of HDLs, help control weight and improve insulin sensitivity.

   a. Recommended activity: The American heart association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of intensive aerobic activity per week, as well as strength training at least two days a week. B. Aerobic activity: It includes such activities such as walking, running, swimming, cycling and dancing. C. Power training: They include exercises with weights or the use of resistance that strengthen the muscles. D. Start slowly: If you are not used to physical exercises, start with short training and gradually increase their duration and intensity. E. Choose what you like: Choose the activities that you like to make it easier for you to adhere to a regular training mode.

3. Refusal of smoking: Refusal of smoking is one of the most important steps that you can take to improve heart health. It reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and other SSZs.

   a. Search for support: Seek support for a doctor, friends and family. There are also various programs and resources to help in rejection of smoking. B. Nicotin -replaced therapy: The use of nicotine plasters, chewing gum or sprays can help alleviate the symptoms of cancellation. C. Medicines: Some drugs released according to the prescription can help you quit smoking.

4. Stress management: Chronic stress can have a negative effect on the health of the heart.

   a. Relaxation techniques: They include deep breathing, meditation, yoga and tai-chi. B. Physical activity: Exercises are a great way to relieve stress. C. Social support: Spend time with friends and family, share your feelings and look for support. D. Hobbies and interests: Engage in activities that you like and helps to relax. E. Sufficient sleep: Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

5. Maintaining a healthy weight: Weight loss, even small, can have a significant effect on the health of the heart.

   a. Diet and physical exercises: The combination of healthy nutrition and regular physical exercises is the most effective way to reduce weight and maintain it normal. B. Setting realistic goals: Set realistic goals to reduce weight and adhere to them. C. Search for support: Seek your doctor, a nutritionist or coach for support.

6. Regular medical examinations: Regular examinations at the doctor allow you to identify and control the risk factors of the SVD, such as high blood pressure, a high level of cholesterol and diabetes.

   a. Measurement of blood pressure: Regularly measure blood pressure and consult a doctor if it is increased. B. Blood test for cholesterol: Pass the blood test for cholesterol to control the level of LDL, HDL and triglycerides. C. Diabetes screening: If you have risk factors for diabetes, regularly screening for diabetes.

IV. Medication prevention

1. Statin: Medicines that reduce the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol. They are often prescribed to people with a high risk of SVD or an existing heart disease.
2. Antihypertensive drugs: Medications that reduce blood pressure. There are several different classes of antihypertensive drugs, and the doctor will select the most suitable for you depending on your condition and other factors. a. Diuretics: They help the body remove excess salt and water, which reduces blood pressure. B. Beta blockers: Slow down the heart rhythm and reduce the strength of heart contractions, which reduces blood pressure. C. ACE inhibitors (angiotenzinzinoproding enzyme): Block the production of a hormone that narrows blood vessels, which reduces blood pressure. D. Angiotensin II (sconces) receptor blockers: The effect of a hormone that narrows blood vessels is blocked, which reduces blood pressure. E. Calcium channel blockers: Relax blood vessels, which reduces blood pressure.
3. Antitrombocytic drugs (aspirin, clopidogrel): Medicines that help prevent blood clots. Aspirin in low doses is often prescribed for people with a high risk of SVD for the prevention of myocardial infarction and stroke.
4. Diabetes treatment drugs: People with diabetes often need medicines to control blood sugar. This may include insulin, oral drugs or their combination.

V. Additional preventive measures

1. Vaccination: Some infections, such as influenza and pneumonia, can increase the risk of CVD. Regular vaccination can help protect you from these infections.
2. Air pollution restriction: Long -term exposure to contaminated air can increase the risk of CVD. Try to avoid places with a high level of air pollution and use protection products such as masks, if necessary.
3. Regular dental examinations: Some studies show that gum diseases can be associated with an increased risk of CVD. Regular dental examinations and maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce this risk.
4. Prevention of thromboembolism: People with a high risk of thromboembolism (blood clots) can be prescribed anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood).
5. Genetic testing: In some cases, genetic testing can be recommended to identify people with a high risk of SVD due to genetic factors.

VI. Prevention for special groups

1. Women: Women have unique risk factors of the SSZ, such as pregnancy, menopause and the use of hormonal therapy. It is important to discuss these risk factors with your doctor.
2. Elderly people: The risk of the SPA increases with age. Older people may need more aggressive prevention and treatment of SVD.
3. People with diabetes: People with diabetes have a significantly increased risk of the CVD. Monitoring the level of sugar in the blood, blood pressure and cholesterol is crucial for reducing this risk.
4. People with the SSZ family history: People with SSZ family history may require more aggressive prevention, including earlier screening and drug treatment.
5. Children and adolescents: SSZ prevention should begin in childhood. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including healthy nutrition, regular physical activity and rejection of smoking, is crucial for reducing the risk of SVD in the future.

VII. Diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records electrical activity of the heart and can identify cordial rhythm disturbances, signs of damage to the heart muscle or other heart problems.
2. Echocardiography: Uses ultrasound to create an image of the heart. Allows you to evaluate the size and function of heart chambers, valves and walls.
3. Stress test (stress test): Assesses the work of the heart during physical activity. It can identify signs of ischemia (insufficient blood supply) of the heart muscle.
4. Coronary angiography: Uses x -rays and a contrast matter to visualize the coronary arteries. Allows you to identify narrowing or locks in the arteries.
5. CT angiography of the coronary arteries: The non -invasive method of visualization of the coronary arteries using computed tomography.
6. MRI of the heart: Uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart. Allows you to evaluate the structure and function of the heart, as well as identify signs of damage to the heart muscle.
7. Blood tests: They help to evaluate the level of cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose and other blood substances that may indicate the risk of SVD.

VIII. New directions in the prevention and treatment of SVD

1. Personalized medicine: Development of treatment methods adapted to the individual genetic and clinical characteristics of the patient.
2. Gene therapy: The use of genes for the treatment or prevention of SSZ.
3. Nanotechnology: The development of nanoparticles for the delivery of drugs directly to the place of damage in the heart or blood vessels.
4. Artificial intelligence (AI): The use of AI for the analysis of large volumes of data and the identification of people with a high risk of SVD, as well as to develop new treatment methods.
5. Development of new drugs: The development of new drugs is constantly underway to reduce the level of cholesterol, blood pressure and other risk factors of the SVD.

IX. Psychological aspects of the prevention of SSZ

1. Motivation to change lifestyle: It is important to motivate people to change the lifestyle and adhere to healthy behavior.
2. Overcoming barriers: Help people in overcoming barriers that impede a healthy lifestyle, such as the lack of time, money or access to healthy foods.
3. Psychological support: Providing psychological support to people with SVDs to help them cope with stress, anxiety and depression.
4. Training and informing: Teaching people about the risks of SSZ and the advantages of a healthy lifestyle.

X. The role of the state and society in the prevention of the SSZ

1. Policy development: Development of a policy that promotes a healthy lifestyle, such as increasing taxes on tobacco products and products with a high sugar content, as well as subsidizing healthy foods.
2. Educational campaigns: Conducting educational campaigns aimed at increasing the awareness of the risks of SVD and the advantages of a healthy lifestyle.
3. Creating a favorable environment: The creation of a favorable environment for a healthy lifestyle, such as the construction of bicycle paths and pedestrian zones, as well as ensuring access to healthy foods.
4. Support for scientific research: Support for scientific research in the field of the prevention and treatment of SVD.

XI. The importance of early diagnosis and treatment

1. Increase in the chances of recovery: Early diagnosis and treatment of SSZ can significantly increase the chances of recovery and improve the quality of life.
2. Prevention of complications: Early treatment can help prevent the development of serious complications, such as myocardial infarction, stroke and heart failure.
3. Improvement of forecasts: Early treatment can improve the prognosis and extend life.

XII. Alternative and additional treatment methods

1. Phytotherapy: The use of medicinal plants for the treatment and prevention of CVD. (Consultation with a doctor is needed!)
2. Acupuncture: The method of traditional Chinese medicine, in which thin needles are inserted into certain points on the body to stimulate energy channels. (Consultation with a doctor is needed!)
3. Biologically active additives (dietary supplements): The use of vitamins, minerals and other additives to improve heart health. (Consultation with a doctor is needed!)
4. Yoga and meditation: Practices aimed at reducing stress and improving the general state of health.

XIII. Life with cardiovascular disease

1. Acceptance of the diagnosis: It is important to take a diagnosis and actively participate in treatment.
2. Following the doctor’s recommendations: It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding the use of drugs, diets and physical exercises.
3. Stress management: It is important to learn how to manage stress and avoid situations that can cause anxiety or depression.
4. Support for family and friends: It is important to have support for family and friends who can help you cope with the disease.
5. Rehabilitation: After myocardial infarction or other serious heart events, cardiological rehabilitation can be recommended.

XIV. The future of the prevention of cardiovascular diseases

1. Technology development: The development of new technologies, such as wearable devices and telemedicine, will more effectively control the health of the heart and carry out the prevention of the SVD at a distance.
2. Enlightenment improvement: Improving the enlightenment of the population about the risks of SVD and the advantages of a healthy lifestyle will help reduce the incidence and mortality from these diseases.
3. Improving treatment: The constant improvement of the treatment methods for SVD will improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients.