Heart disease management available online
To treat or manage heart disease, consult with one of our board-certified primary care doctors online. Lifestyle choices and prescription medications may be an integral part of your management journey, and our doctors are here day and night to guide you toward living healthy with heart disease.*
Learn about heart disease
There are several heart conditions that fall under the category of heart disease. Heart disease is the highest cause of death in the United States, and the most common type is called coronary artery disease (CAD).
With CAD, there is decreased blood flow to the heart, which can cause a heart attack. Coronary artery disease is predominately caused by arterial plaque, or cholesterol, that clogs and hardens the arteries responsible for providing your heart blood. If your heart does not get enough oxygen to pump, it can lead to heart attacks.
Heart arrhythmias occur when there are complications with one’s heartbeat. It can cause the heart to beat too fast, slow, or at an irregular rhythm. A common type of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation (Afib). Coronary artery disease and high blood pressure are two common causes of Afib.
Congenital heart defects are what some are born with. It can affect an individual when they are as young as an infant, such as swelling and shortness of breath. Less serious cases may be diagnosed at a later stage in life such as in adulthood.
Cardiomyopathy is when the diseased heart muscle negatively impacts the ability to pump blood to the rest of the body.
How to treat heart disease
If you have heart disease, your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan. This may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. Lowering processed, high-carbohydrate, foods and beverages with added sugars, along with other small changes can go a long way. You may also need medication to manage your condition.
There are several types of medications that can be used to treat heart disease, and the right type depends mostly on the underlying issue, be it high cholesterol, history of heart attack, heart arrhythmia, or high blood pressure. These medications include beta-blockers, statins, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics. Your doctor will choose the best option for you based on your individual condition.
How to prevent heart disease
There are several things you can do to lower your risk of developing heart disease. These have been tested in several patient groups and include:
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Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet low in saturated and trans fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of heart disease.
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Getting regular exercise: Getting at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most days can help lower your risk of heart disease.
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Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of heart disease. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your risk.
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Quitting smoking: Smoking is one of the leading causes of heart disease. Quitting smoking can help to reduce your risk.
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Managing stress: Stress can contribute to heart disease. Learning how to manage stress can help to lower your risk.
Heart disease is a serious condition that can lead to heart attack, stroke, and death. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking are all important steps in preventing heart disease.
When to see a doctor for heart disease
3 simple steps to get heart disease treatment today
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Talk to your doctor about heart disease symptoms.
