Healthy Heart

Heart disease or cardiovascular disease is an umbrella term used to describe a number of different conditions which affect the heart.

 
The most common heart diseases are Coronary heart disease, Stroke, Peripheral vascular disease. There is no single symptom that indicates a heart disorder, but certain symptoms suggest the possibility, and several symptoms together may make a diagnosis almost certain. A doctor needs to confirm your diagnosis by assessing your medical history, a physical examination and certain diagnostic procedures.

Some symptoms for heart attacks are discomfort, pressure, heaviness or pain in the chest, arm or below the breastbone, fullness, indigestion, or choking feeling (may feel like heartburn), sweating, nausea, vomiting or dizziness, extreme weakness, anxiety or shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeats. Remember, it is important to get a proper diagnosis as some symptoms are common with other diseases.

Some common symptoms of heart disease:

Chest pain usually felt in the chest but can be anywhere between the upper abdomen and the jaw, including the arms or shoulders.
Pain in the limbs occurs because the tissues do not get enough blood and are therefore depleted of oxygen and waste products accumulate.
Shortness of breath is the sensation of difficult or laboured breathing
Fatigue and reduction of physical activity due to inadequate blood flow
Palpitations are the awareness of heart activity. The sensation may feel like pounding, fluttering, racing, or skipping beats,  Light-headedness and fainting.
Swelling, numbness, and changes in skin colour

Non Changeable risk factors:

Diet controlled risk factors:

For further information contact:
The British Heart Foundation Tel: 08450 70 80 70
Web: www.bhf.org.uk
HEART UK Tel: 08454505988
Web: www.heartuk.org.uk  

 
If you require further information or want to speak to one of our Pharmacist feel free to call us on 02476-404177 (option 4)