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What is cardiovascular disease and how is it diagnosed?
Cardiovascular disease is any disease that affects the heart or blood vessels. This can range from diseases like arteriosclerosis,
arrhythmia, and hypertension to heart failure.
Diagnosis:
How can I know for sure if I have a heart disease?
There are many ways to diagnosis someone with heart disease. One way is called nuclear scanning. This is when a stress test
and a radioactive substance is used to determine if you have any internal problems. A stress test can be done while you walk
on a treadmill or use a stationary bike while an EKG (electro cardiogram - measures the electrical work your heart is doing)
is recorded. Another way to diagnosis cardiovascular disease is by using an echo cardiogram, which works like an ultrasound
for your heart. This is very useful in observing the movement of chambers and valves to see if there are any malfunctions.
These images are produced by sound waves that hit up against the heart. An angiography detects blocked blood flow in your
heart. Doctors inject a dye in the pathway of your heart to see where blood is not flowing.
A family history of heart disease can increase your chances of having a cardiovascular (CV) disease, but it's not the
only factor that determines your heart condition. Healthy lifestyle choices like a balanced diet and regular exercise can
help strengthen your heart and lessen your risk of developing any problems.
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