The cardiovascular system is a key factor in determining overall health. With the increasing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy habits, it has become important to understand the role of cardiac health and the steps one can take to have a healthy heart. Here, one has to keep an eye out for cardiac issues, i.e., a wide range of conditions that affect the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.

Symptoms
Cardiac issues can disrupt the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Common issues include coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valve disorders. Recognizing the symptoms of such conditions can help one get an early diagnosis and treatment. Here are the common symptoms one may observe:

– Chest pain and discomfort
– Shortness of breath
– Fatigue and weakness
– Dizziness and fainting spells
– Swelling in the extremities

Risk factors
In addition to keeping an eye out for early signs, it is important to recognize and control risk factors for cardiac issues. Here are a few issues that can increase the likelihood of developing a cardiovascular condition:

Irregular heartbeat: Experiencing rapid or irregular heartbeat can be a sign of an arrhythmia or other cardiac problems.

High blood pressure: Persistently elevated blood pressure levels can exert pressure on the heart and increase the risk of developing cardiac issues.

Elevated cholesterol levels: High levels of cholesterol in the blood can contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease.

Family history of heart disease: A family history of cardiovascular diseases or heart attacks can indicate a genetic predisposition to similar conditions.

Sedentary lifestyle: Unhealthy habits and a sedentary lifestyle can significantly increase the risk of developing cardiac issues.

Diagnosis
Stress test
A stress test is a tool for analyzing how physical activity affects the heart. The first step of the procedure is recording the baseline vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Then, the patient is hooked to an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine to monitor the heart’s electrical activity. The patient is then asked to exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike, gradually increasing the intensity. Throughout the procedure, the healthcare provider closely observes the heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG readings. The test results indicate whether one is healthy or dealing with coronary artery disease or arrhythmia.

Other methods
Here are some common tests used for diagnosing heart-related issues:

Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, helping identify abnormalities.

Electrocardiogram: An electrocardiogram measures the electrical activity of the heart, assisting in diagnosing arrhythmia and other abnormalities. A Holter monitor is a type of portable electrocardiogram that records the heart’s electrical activity over a prolonged period, providing valuable information about irregularities and potential issues.

Blood tests: Blood tests can detect certain enzymes and proteins released during a heart attack or other cardiac events, helping doctors deliver a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

Cardiac issues can significantly impact well-being, but awareness, timely diagnosis, and appropriate treatment can help one prevent and manage these conditions. When concerned about being at risk of heart-related ailments, one should follow their doctor’s instructions and undergo diagnostic tests like stress tests. Based on the results, the doctor can recommend a suitable treatment plan.