Cardiovascular Diseases Resource Center - All Articles
Health ConditionsCardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular Diseases - All Articles

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Cardiovascular disease is a group of health conditions that affect the heart, blood vessels, and circulation. Specific issues include atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries), heart attacks, strokes, abnormal heart rhythms, and heart failure. Treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease involves lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures.

FAQ

What are the most common heart problems?

Coronary artery disease, a condition where plaque buildup narrows the arteries that supply blood to the heart, is the most common type of heart disease. Heart attacks, stroke, heart valve problems, and abnormal heart rhythms also are common.

Eating foods that are high in saturated or trans fats, sodium, and sugar can increase the risk of heart disease. Eating lean protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and unsaturated fats can prevent or improve heart problems.

A combination of aerobic exercise (like walking, running, or biking) and strength training is the best regimen for cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of cardio daily, and strengthen your muscles at least twice a week.

Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your personal health and family history. Tests like blood work, electrocardiograms, computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging may also be ordered.

Yes, chronic stress can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, and an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke. Stress releases hormones like adrenaline, which revs the body up.

Meet Our Experts In Cardiovascular Diseases
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Chung Yoon, MD

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor
Chung Yoon, MD, is a noninvasive cardiologist with a passion for diagnosis, prevention, intervention, and treatment of a wide range of heart and cardiovascular disorders. He enjoys...
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Anurag Sahu, MD

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Anurag Sahu, MD, is the director of the adult congenital heart program at Inova Health System in Fairfax, Virginia. Previously, he was an associate professor of medicine as well as...

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Adam Lake, MD

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Adam Lake, MD, is a family physician with expertise in LGBTQIA+ health, as well as an HIV specialist and addiction medicine specialist. He is medical director of a clinic specializ...

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Lynn Grieger, RDN, CDCES

Medical Reviewer

Lynn Grieger is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, certified diabetes care and education specialist, certified personal trainer, and certified health and wellness coach. She comp...

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Michael Cutler, DO, PhD

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Michael Cutler, DO, PhD, is a cardiac electrophysiologist at Intermountain Heart Rhythm Specialists in Salt Lake City, Utah. His research interests include understanding the cellul...

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Sanjai Sinha, MD

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor
Sanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified internal medicine physician and an assistant professor of clinical medicine and the director of the care management program at Weill Cornell ...
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Paul Boyce, MD, MPH

Paul Boyce, MD, MPH

Medical Reviewer
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Paul Boyce, MD, MPH, is the medical director of the pulmonary hypertension program at Northside Hospital in Atlanta. He is a board-certified pulmonologist and intensivist, and his ...

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Cheng-Han Chen

Cheng-Han Chen, MD, PhD, FACC, FSCAI

Medical Reviewer

Cheng-Han Chen, MD, PhD, is the medical director of the structural heart program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California, and director of structural a...

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Resources
  1. What Is Cardiovascular Disease? American Heart Association. January 10, 2024.
  2. Heart Disease Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. October 24, 2024.

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