Every industry has its own lingo and acronyms that truly have to be learned. Even text messaging has gone the way of acronyms to the point you may have to ask someone what they mean if you’re unsure.
Stockton Cardiology Medical Group offers a team of cardiologists who can help you with your heart concerns and problems. Whether you have a family history of heart disease or you just don’t feel yourself and your primary doctor wants you to see a specialist, we can help. Our heart doctors are experts in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of all types of heart problems. Below, we’ll go over some common lingo you’ll need to know that is commonly used in the world of heart health. Contact us today for an appointment!
COMMON HEART TERMS
Aneurysm
An aneurysm is a heart term you will hear frequently. Technically, a heart aneurysm refers to the bulging of the walls in the circulatory system, namely the vein, artery, or heart that is caused by disease, injury, or birth defects. Serious problems can occur when these aneurysm rupture, which then allows the blood in the vein, artery, or heart to spill out into your body. This internal bleeding can be fatal. Aneurysm can be congenital, meaning they are present from birth, or they can occur over time. Aneurysm can occur anywhere in the body. However, a brain aneurysm or a heart aneurysm are common conditions.
Angioplasty
Angioplasty is a common procedure used to treat diseased arteries. In this non-surgical technique, a tiny balloon is inserted into the arteries that serves to widen or to unblock clogged arteries, allowing the blood to flow again.
Arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis is where a person’s arteries thicken, which reduces the blood flow and can lead to a heart attack. Healthy arteries are flexible and elastic. This condition is commonly caused by age. Atherosclerosis is caused by a buildup of fats, cholesterol, or other tissues along the artery walls. A buildup of cholesterol plaque may rupture, or pieces may break off, which can lead to a blood clot. Both arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis can cause a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. Treatment varies, and it’s best to see your cardiologist for diagnosis and treatment options.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force that your blood exerts against artery walls. While your blood pressure normally varies throughout the day, depending on what you are doing, such as sleeping or exercising, having an elevated blood pressure for too long of a period can cause your heart to work too hard and thus lose strength. High blood pressure can also damage your blood vessels, making them weaker as well. This can even, over time, damage your organs, including your heart, brain, and kidneys. It also can lead to heart attack or heart failure, stroke, or kidney disease. Due to the fact that your blood pressure affects so many areas of your health, this is why it’s so important to have your blood pressure checked regularly by your cardiologist whenever possible.
Coronary Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease is where your coronary arteries narrow, which then causes a decreased blood supply to the heart. The coronary arteries are the major arteries that carry blood to your heart. The major cause of coronary heart disease is cholesterol, which clogs your arteries, causing inflammation. Sometimes you have symptoms, such as chest pain, and sometimes you do not. To help with heart disease, there are medications available, angioplasty can be performed, major surgery if warranted, or lifestyle changes. The heart doctors at Stockton Cardiology Medical Group are adept at diagnosing coronary heart disease and prescribing treatments. Schedule an appointment today.
CHOOSE STOCKTON CARDIOLOGY MEDICAL GROUP FOR ALL YOUR HEART HEALTH NEEDS
The care of your heart is vital to your overall health. Lifestyle plays a huge role in heart health. When you eat a healthy diet, exercise, get enough sleep, and don’t abuse alcohol or drugs, your heart will keep going strong. If you don’t take care of your health, your heart can suffer, leading to problems down the road.
The cardiology team at Stockton Cardiology Medical Group is here to help. We have offices in Tracy, Stockton, San Andreas, and Manteca. Call today!