The number of deaths attributable to cardiovascular diseases is estimated at 17,7 million, i.e. 31% of total global mortality. Of these deaths, an estimated 7.4 million are due to coronary heart disease and 6.7 million to stroke. At the first signs, you must consult urgently.
It is common for a cardiovascular disease affecting the blood vessels to give no symptoms. A heart attack or stroke is sometimes the first sign of an underlying heart disease. The main risk factors for heart disease and stroke are poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking and the harmful use of alcohol. Certain risk factors can further aggravate the risks such as: hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, overweight and obesity.
The symptoms of ‘heart attack
A heart attack can cause the following symptoms in particular:
– pain or discomfort in the central part of chest;
– pain or discomfort in arms, left shoulder, elbows, jaw or back.
– difficulty breathing or shortness of breath,
– feel faint or vomit,
– feel dizzy or pass out,
– be cold sweats or turning pale.
The likelihood of experiencing breathing difficulties or nausea, of vomiting or of experiencing pain in the jaw or back, is higher for women.
Stroke symptoms
The most common symptom of a stroke is a feeling of sudden weakness in the f ace, arm or leg, usually on one side of the body.
A stroke can also cause the following symptoms to appear suddenly:
– numbness of the face, arms or legs, especially on one side of the body;
– confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech;
– visual difficulties affecting one or both eyes;
– difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination;
– severe headache without cause known and syncope or loss of consciousness.
People with these symptoms should consult immediately.
Preventive measures to adopt that work
Most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors: smoking, poor diet and obesity, physical inactivity and harmful use of alcohol.
Quit smoking, reduce salt intake in s diet, eating fruits and vegetables, practicing regular physical activity and avoiding the harmful use of alcohol can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, the treatment of diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia may be necessary to reduce cardiovascular risk and prevent heart attacks and strokes.
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