1. Swelling, Pumps and Plaque
Inflammatory heart disease is not just one disease or one set of symptoms. Endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart) may accompany other forms of heart disease. Congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease are two conditions that may be present in combination with inflammation. Congestive heart failure is a condition that prevents the heart from pumping blood to the body's other organs. Coronary artery disease is plaque build-up inside the coronary arteries. Many types of inflammation in the body may lead to heart disease.
2. Consider the Risk Factors
High cholesterol, uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure) and smoking are some of the primary risk factors for developing inflammatory heart disease. Diabetes and leading a sedentary lifestyle are other risk factors. When you get past the age of 65, blood flow decreases, making you more susceptible to heart disease in general. Long-term use of birth control pills may be another risk factor for some women due to excess hormones in the body which may cause your blood to become too thin.
3. Know Complications of Heart Disease
Lung disease may be a complication of inflammatory heart disease. The heart pumps blood to your lungs and decreased blood flow causes decreased lung capacity. The lungs can't get as much air. This may also cause fluid build-up in the lungs. Edema (swelling) results from fluid build-up and the swelling causes mobility problems. Increasing pain makes moving difficult. Eye disturbances such as blurred vision may be another complication.
4. Prevent Heart Disease Before it Starts
Exercise is extremely important throughout life. Your body was designed to move, and proper exercise keeps your blood flowing and your muscles strong, including your heart. You don't need to go to extremes, though. A 20-minute walk per day (or at least four times a week) is sufficient. Many doctors recommend following a low-sodium and low-cholesterol diet, and suggest you stop smoking and drink alcohol only in moderation.
5. Signs and Symptoms
There are some signs to watch for in connection with heart disease. Call your doctor if you experience shortness of breath or chest pain, especially if you have the two symptoms together. Swelling in your face or legs and feet (or especially all three areas together) may be another symptom of heart disease. Visual disturbances may also be a sign. Weight gain of more than 2 lbs. a day or 5 lbs. in a week may indicate fluid build-up. Cold feet (in a person who doesn't usually have this characteristic naturally) may indicate decreased blood flow.
