10/08/2025
Heart Disease Quick Guide
1. What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease is a general term for conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function, often reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently.
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2. Common Types
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – Blocked/narrowed heart arteries.
2. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) – Blood flow to part of the heart is cut off.
3. Heart Failure – The heart can’t pump blood well enough.
4. Arrhythmia – Abnormal heart rhythms.
5. Heart Valve Problems – Valves not opening/closing properly.
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3. Causes & Risk Factors
• Unhealthy lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol, poor diet, inactivity.
• Medical conditions: High BP, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity.
• Genetics: Family history of heart disease.
• Age & gender: Risk increases with age; men are generally at higher risk earlier.
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4. Warning Signs & Symptoms
Seek help immediately if you notice:
• Chest pain or pressure (especially during activity)
• Shortness of breath
• Pain spreading to arm, neck, jaw, or back
• Dizziness or fainting
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Swelling in feet, ankles, or abdomen
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5. Prevention Tips
• Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins.
• Reduce salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Exercise 30 min/day, at least 5 days/week.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Quit smoking, limit alcohol.
• Manage stress and get enough sleep.
• Get regular health check-ups.
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6. Emergency First Aid for Heart Attack@
If someone is experiencing severe chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack:
1. Call emergency services immediately.
2. Keep them calm and seated or lying down.
3. Loosen tight clothing to help breathing.
4. Give aspirin (if not allergic) – chew it slowly.
5. If the person becomes unconscious, start CPR:
• Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100–120 compressions per minute).
