Ischemic Heart Disease - also known as Ischaemic Heart Disease

Ischemic heart disease is the lesser-known name of a condition that is the most efficient killer out of all heart diseases across Europe and America. When it can be treated and relieved quickly, say, within a 10 minute period with the help of either bed rest or medicine then it is referred to by the more common terms “stable coronary heart disease” or “stable angina.”

What is Ischemic Heart Disease ?

Ischemia is a form of coronary heart disease that occurs when fat deposits and plaque attaching to the artery walls narrow the interior of an artery to such an extent that the heart stops receiving enough oxygen-rich blood from the arteries for it to function properly. The danger is that the coronary arteries are the only arteries that carry blood to the heart.

To put it simply, ischemia is a “restriction in blood supply.” Sometimes ischemia is also spelled “ischaemia.”

Another way to describe what happens is that when the blood supply is restricted, the heart muscle cramps. If you have ever experienced severe cramp in your leg then you will begin to appreciate what we are trying to describe.

How will I know if I have Ischemic Heart Disease ? - ischemic heart disease symptoms

When blood vessels are blocked or become constricted due to ischemia what takes place is angina pectoris. This does not necessarily mean they will feel severe chest pain, in most circumstances they will feel discomfort, pressure or heaviness on the chest, this may be thought of initially as heartburn (for the record heartburn has nothing to do with the heart and is a digestive problem), also a feeling of choking is not uncommon.

Causes of Ischemic Heart Disease ?

This medical condition may occur for a number of reasons:

Tachycardia - this is an abnormally fast heartbeat, or due to the presence of blood clots [thromboembolism]

Angina pectoris - can also take place due to atherosclerosis, this is defined as “lipid-laden plaques obstructing the lumen of arteries”

Hypotension - which is likely to occur in cases of heart failure or septic shock. Hypotension is the technical name for low blood pressure

Tumor - a tumor could cause outside compression or pressure on a blood vessel, which could bring about the problem.

Foreign Bodies - in the case of a pregnant woman, amniotic fluid that is in evidence within an amniotic fluid embolism.

Sickle Cell Disease - angina pectoris could also occur as a result of sickle cell disease, which constitutes hemoglobin that is shaped abnormally.

Will it occur at any time ?

Ischemia is most likely to occur when during physical activity or exertion such as weight training or practically any form of exercise. It is possible that it may even be felt when a person is eating, very excited or under a great deal of stress. Also, when exposed to extreme cold temperatures. Basically, Ischemia usually takes place when the heart is in need of an extra supply of oxygen.

What are the affects of Ischemic Heart Disease ?

The affects of chronic ischemic heart disease can be life changing and in some cases, life ending.

Coronary artery disease can become so severe that ischemia can begin to take place even when a person is in a resting state.

All those who are unfortunate to feel the affects of this condition will have temporary damage and pain to the arteries.

Due to the fact that oxygen is connected to hemoglobin in all red blood cells, when there is an inadequate flow of blood the tissue then becomes hypoxic and in extreme cases, with no oxygen supply whatsoever, it becomes anoxic. A state of anoxic can lead to the death of cells, which is known as necrosis. When necrosis occurs as a result of ischemic it generally takes anywhere from 10 to 12 hours to occur.

Some people may also suffer the ability to use muscles as effectively, permanent damage to the heart muscle and problems with the heart muscles activity in the long term, an irregular heartbeat and damage to vital parts of the hearts function like the valves may also occur.

Can I prevent Ischemic Heart Disease ?

You cannot prevent this medical condition per se but you can reduce the risks of it occurring by following a few simple lifestyle changes. A few of the obvious areas to consider are:

Exercise - regular exercise for thirty minutes for about 4 or 5 times each week you can vastly improve your cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your heart and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Diet - your diet can help regulate your cholesterol levels and blood pressure, which are major contributing factors to heart disease. It is important to eat healthily and reduce the amount of fat you take in through your diet on a daily basis.

Lose weight - if you enjoy your food and gain a few extra pounds of body weight you could be putting excessive strain on your heart, particularly if you are older. This added pressure may build up over time causing too much pressure and developing into heart disease.

Shift work - some work patterns can make individuals more susceptible to heart disease. Statictics show people who work shifts (varying hours of work) are 3 times more likely to fall victim to heart disease than anyone else. This is due the stress these unsociable hours put on the body due to lack of sleep and irregular sleeping patterns. There also appears to be a disproportionate amount of heavy smokers amongst shift workers.

More articles to read.....

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Coronary Heart Disease - why you shouldn't ignore it!
Coronary Heart Disease Facts
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