Fit and Healthy Lifestyle

Congestive heart disease is the hearts inability to supply enough oxygen and nutrients to meet the needs of the human body. It is commonly caused by a weaken heart muscle, hardening of the arteries, some lung diseases such as cancer and emphysema. Over five million Americans suffer from this disease and it is believed that over half of them will die from their condition within the next 5 years. Congestive heart disease is the leading cause of hospitalization among senior citizens.

A previous heart attack, advanced age, and diabetes are all factors in developing congestive heart disease. While all of these medical conditions are treatable the damage done to the heart muscle cannot be reversed.

Another risk factor that cannot be changed when dealing with congestive heart disease is having a genetic disposition to the disease. Genetic testing and knowledge of the complete family history can go a long way in indicating whether or not congestive heart disease is something that should be a concern for you.

While some risk factors for congestive heart disease cannot be helped, there are many things that you can do to reduce the risk of developing this disease. These factors include such things as chronic high blood pressure, drug or alcohol abuse, thyroid disease, and even heart valve disease.

The best course of action to take is to reduce your risk of developing congestive heart disease and improve the quality of life. Unfortunately, congestive heart disease is difficult to diagnose because it often occurs as a result of or in conjunction with other forms of heart disease. Perhaps the best hope for patients with this disease is to catch it early and begin treatment as soon as possible…. Congestive Heart Disease continue …