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July 29, 2012

Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of heart-related medical emergencies. There are various ways an individual can control their risk factors and prevent the development of heart disease. The most well-known ways are eating a healthy diet, controlling their weight, managing stress, controlling diabetes, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. But there are some lesser known risk factors that research suggests also play a role in heart disease. These factors include:

• Genetics: It’s known that family history plays a role in the development of heart disease, but most people are unaware of congenital risks associated with the condition. Some people are born with abnormal heart valves and arteries that are more prone to plaque build-up and hardening. Congenital heart problems are more difficult to diagnose, if there are no symptoms, so it’s important to be aware of the possible risk.

• Second-hand smoke: There is a link between disease and being exposed to cigarette smoke on a continual basis through secondhand smoke. There are thousands of premature deaths every year from cardiovascular diseases caused by exposure to secondhand smoke.

• Anti-depressant Use:  A few studies have shown that anti-depressants, such as SSRI’s (selective serotonin uptake inhibitors) and Prozac, can thicken arteries 400% faster than the normal aging process. This suggests that long-term use may have an effect on cardiovascular health.

Prevention

Lifestyle choices are the number one prevention method for cardiovascular disease. Smoking, diet, and exercise are all within everyone’s control. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or obesity, there’s still a great amount of options you can choose from to reduce your risk of developing heart disease. The best option is to make some lifestyle changes, including eating a well-balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Treatment

There are a variety of treatments available for heart disease in the form of medication. But during emergencies such as heart attack, stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest, medical professionals are needed to immediately intervene and control the effects of heart disease.

CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and AED use are the most immediate treatments available for heart-related emergencies. AEDs are becoming a standard piece of equipment available in many different buildings and facilities, and professionals trained in ACLS are certified to use them. Both CPR and AED use are covered in ACLS training, along with more advanced techniques such as the use of pharmaceuticals and ECG interpretation. For paramedics, EMTs, and other first responders who handle cardiac-related emergencies, ACLS certification is a necessary tool to ensure optimal cardiac care is provided during resuscitation.

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