Congestive heart disease (CHD) is recognized as the number one cause of death around the world. In the U.S. alone myocardial infarction, which is a result of CHD causes 35% of deaths in men aged 35 – 50. Also referred to as congestive heart failure or CHF, this disease must be detected at an early stage since it has the capacity to cause numerous complications. It is characterized by the heart’s incapacity to supply blood to the entire body, rendering the body parts or organs dysfunctional.
There are those who believe that congestive heart disease or congestive heart failure equates to the heart’s death. This is not entirely true since congestive heart disease happens when the heart is incapacitated to supply the different body parts with enough blood. Blood is the main source of oxygen and nutrition of the different body parts.
The distribution of blood to the different body parts can be disrupted due to atherosclerosis; especially if it affects the left ventricle since this is the major pump that is responsible for blood distribution. If this specific pump no longer works effectively, different parts of the body can suffer.
The lack of blood supply will result in numerous disorders such as edema and death of cells. This is the reason that body parts such as the lungs, kidneys, and lower extremities are commonly associated with congestive heart disease.
The good news about this disease is that it can be reversed if it is detected at an early stage, however, if it is discovered too late the damage done might be too severe for any hopes of reparation. Lucky ones who learn about their condition at an early stage are able to address the condition through lifestyle modification and medication.
Eating the right food and exercising can lower total cholesterol levels and preclude atherosclerosis from harming the blood vessels. Taking in healthy foods that are high in fish oil or omega-3 can foster the production of good cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in our bloodstream.
Increased amounts of HDL in our bloodstream prevent atherosclerosis from happening. Having excess amounts along the bloodstream can bring blood vessels back to its original condition and prevent ischemic heart disease from happening.
Read also: The Major Causes Of Heart Disease We Must Be Aware Of
