HEART

It is important for everyone to be aware of symptoms of heart disease, since heart problems are the number one killer in the United States. This is attributed to Americans' fondness for fast foods and it is no accident that many of the major fast food franchises have decided to switch over from trans-fatty acids to “good” fats such as canola oil. However, even those who don't indulge in French fries need to know what are the symptoms of heart disease, especially if there is a family history of heart problems.

While most varieties of heart disease occur gradually, a heart attack occurs suddenly, but its causes and effects are more long-term. Symptoms of heart disease in the case of a heart attack include a feeling of nausea, dizziness, a headache or pain the jaw, pain the shoulder or in the left arm, a squeezing feeling in the chest. Symptoms may be dramatic or may barely be felt at all, depending on the case. A fourth of all heart attacks occur without symptoms, and this is the most dangerous scenario, since one is not prone to get treatment for a problem unless there are telltale signs. If not treated immediately, a heart attack can cause permanent damage to the heart and even death.

Symptoms of heart disease in the case of arrhythmias usually occur when one realizes that his or her heart is occasionally missing a beat. Often these are harmless palpitations which are caused by an excessive consumption of stimulants such as caffeine. However, one should go to a doctor to rule out symptoms of heart disease. Arrhythmias are the result of heart valve problems, which might be indicative of damage to the valve itself. They are often cured by a “shock” which may regulate heart beats, but there is a risk in this treatment, since a clot could become dislodged and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Symptoms of heart disease in the case of heart failure usually involve fatigue and swelling of the extremities. One may sense as well that the lungs are filled with fluid and have difficulty breathing. The buildup of fluid is causes by the fact that the heart can no longer pump blood to the organs of the body and the extremities without difficulty. Since circulation is not as effective, liquid builds up throughout the body and is not moved efficiently.

Any kind of irregularity may not necessarily be symptoms of heart disease, but it is essential to keep an eye out for problems. Pains in one's chest should not be ignored and irregularity in heart rhythms should be investigated. Particularly if one has a history of heart problems in one's family, it is essential to be vigilant even in one's 30s and alert to problems that may occur. Regular checkups are essential and it is a good idea to occasionally monitor your heart rate. Above all, a healthy lifestyle is important for preventing heart disease, and one should eat a diet low in saturated fats, sodium and to exercise regularly.