ballochroy.com » Heart Disease

A First For Ontario: Cardiac Stem Cell Transplant Performed At The Peter Munk Cardiac Centre

roy — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 04:19:53 +0000

Heart failure is a leading cause of death in Canada…

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Heart Disease and Social Security Disability Benefits

roy — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 15:34:54 +0000

Article by Jonathan Ginsberg

Heart disease is a broad term used to describe a range of diseases that affect your heart, and in some cases, your blood vessels. The term “heart disease” is often used interchangeably with “cardiovascular disease” – a term that generally refers to conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, chest pain (angina), or stroke. Other heart conditions, such as infections and conditions that affect your heart’s muscle, valves, or beating rhythm also are considered forms of heart disease.

Heart disease is the No. 1 worldwide killer of men and women, including in the United States. Responsible for 40 percent of all the deaths in the United States, more than all forms of cancer combined (!), heart disease is a legitimate fear. Here, we will discuss the specifics regarding heart disease and how someone with heart disease may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits (or SSDI).

About Heart Disease

The causes of heart disease vary by type of heart disease. While cardiovascular disease can refer to many different types of heart or blood vessel problems, the term is often used to mean damage caused to your heart or blood vessels by atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty plaques in your arteries, blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients from your heart to the rest of your body.

Healthy arteries are flexible and strong. Over time, however, too much pressure in your arteries can create excessive wear and make the walls thick and stiff, therefore restricting blood flow to your organs and tissues. This process is called arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is the most common form of this disorder. Atherosclerosis is also the most common cause of cardiovascular disease, and it is caused by a variety of factors, including an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, being overweight and smoking. All of these are major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis and, in turn, cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular disease may continue to be undiagnosed until the condition worsens to the point of a heart attack, chest pain (angina), stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. It’s important to watch for cardiovascular symptoms and discuss any concerns with your doctor. Some of these symptoms include the following:

-Chest pain (angina)-Shortness of breath-Pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in your legs or arms, if the blood vessels in those parts of your body are narrowed

Cardiovascular disease can sometimes be found early with regular doctor visits.

Heart disease treatments vary. Most treatments of cardiovascular disease focus on opening narrowed arteries that cause the symptoms. Depending on how severe the blockages, treatments may include lifestyle changes, medications, and/or surgery.

Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program designed to pay monetary benefits to qualified applicants who have worked long enough and paid their social security taxes. Based on medical evidence, work history, and education history, the Social Security Administration determines whether or not applicants qualify for benefits and how much each applicant can receive.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets forth specific criteria when qualifying applicants for benefits. With regard to heart disease specifically, the medical evidence must be consistent with SSA’s classification within the following criteria: Coronary artery disease, demonstrated by angiography (obtained independent of Social Security disability evaluation) or other appropriate medically acceptable imaging, and in the absence of a timely exercise tolerance test or a timely normal drug-induced stress test, an MC, preferably one experienced in the care of patients with cardiovascular disease, has concluded that performance of exercise tolerance testing would present a significant risk to the individual, with both 1 and 2:

1. Angiographic evidence showing: a. 50 percent or more narrowing of a nonbypassed left main coronary artery; or b. 70 percent or more narrowing of another nonbypassed coronary artery; or c. 50 percent or more narrowing involving a long (greater than 1 cm) segment of a nonbypassed coronary artery; or d. 50 percent or more narrowing of at least two nonbypassed coronary arteries; or e. 70 percent or more narrowing of a bypass graft vessel; and

2. Resulting in very serious limitations in the ability to independently initiate, sustain, or complete activities of daily living.

These criteria are addressed in much more detail by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, keep in mind that the heart disease symptoms which meet the criteria for receipt of benefits may develop as a result of the disease process and/or the medications prescribed and used, or the residual effects of surgical procedures used to treat the disease.

The medical evidence supporting one’s argument that he or she may meet these criteria, and therefore qualify for disability benefits, is crucial to obtaining a favorable finding. Physicians are considered experts in their field of practice, and their diagnosis, treatment and prognosis concerning a person’s condition are key to determining if someone who suffers with heart disease qualifies for Social Security Disability benefits.

Jonathan Ginsberg has been practicing Social Security Disability law in the Atlanta, Georgia area for over 20 years. His website can be found at http://www.atlantasocialsecuritydisabilityattorney.net

Heart Attack Risk Linked To Car Ownership And Owning A TV

roy — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 04:19:48 +0000

According to a study published in the European Heart Journal, owning a car and a television is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, while physical activity during leisure time or work considerably reduces the risk of heart attacks in developed and developing nations…

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A Roundup Of 2011 Global Dairy Research Highlights The Benefits Of Dairy Products

roy — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 04:18:16 +0000

As the New Year approaches, resolutions of losing weight and getting healthier are stacking up all over the world. However, with so many different fad diets, experts, websites and TV shows all touting different (and sometimes miraculous!) methods of how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, accomplishing your resolution can get quite confusing…

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1 In 50 Babies Has Birth Defect: Report Highlights Worrying Gaps In Regional Monitoring

roy — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 04:18:30 +0000

More than one baby in every 50 is born with a birth defect (congenital anomaly) according to the latest annual report by the British Isles Network of Congenital Anomaly Registers (BINOCAR) – significantly more common than previously reported estimates of around one in 80…

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1 In 50 Babies Has Birth Defect: Report Highlights Worrying Gaps In Regional Monitoring

roy — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 04:18:30 +0000

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Myths About Heart Disease

roy — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:34:36 +0000

Article by Monica Davidson

Coronary heart disease is the greatest single cause of death in Australia. Given its widespread nature, an astounding number of myths exist about the disease. Here are the facts.What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is an aspect of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which also includes stroke and blood vessel ailments. It accounts for around 38% of all deaths each year. Heart disease outcomes include heart attacks.Your doctor can help you measure if you are at risk of heart disease. Certain risk factors are:* Being aged over 65;* Smoking;* High blood pressure and cholesterol levels;* Diabetes;* A family history of Cardio Vascular Disease.However, there are still many unknowns. A person with no risk factors can develop the disease, while a less healthy person might live a long life.The National Heart Foundation’s website is a great source of information about reducing the risks.

A Range of MythsMyth #1: Heart Disease only affects Men

Heart disease is the biggest killer of women in Australia. Four times the number of women die of heart disease than breast cancer each year.* It is thought that the hormone oestrogen acts to protect the heart. After menopause oestrogen levels drop, therefore increasing the risk of heart problems.* Consequently, women tend to develop the disease much later than men, up to ten years or more, often with more serious consequences.Many women ignore the possibility of heart disease, even if they demonstrate risk factors.* Ongoing studies have shown that the use of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may increase risks of heart disease.* It is vital for post-menopausal women to be regularly checked for signs of heart disease.The Heart Foundation of Australia provides more information on the role of oestrogen in heart disease.Myth #2: Low Fat Diets and Exercise prevent Heart Disease

The US National Institutes of Health monitored 49,000 people over 8 years, and found that those on a high fibre, low fat diet were just as prone to heart disease as people with a more unhealthy diet.* The fats found in lean meat, dairy foods, oily fish, nuts and avocados are good for you.* Even saturated fats help the body to process ‘healthier’ fats.* Trans fats are to be avoided, and are usually found in snack foods like chips.* There is mounting concern that high protein/low carbohydrate diets may also increase the risks of heart disease, as the intake of grains and vegetables is limited.Exercise certainly helps lower cholesterol and increase fitness. Even a small amount of moderate activity each day can improve your mood, lower blood pressure and increase well-being.* However, no matter what shape you’re in, you can still be at risk of heart disease. Even thin people who exercise have heart attacks.Myth #3: Broken Hearts don’t Exist

Many cardiologists believe that our mental and emotional state affect our heart’s well-being. There have been several respected medical studies showing a direct link between a healthy emotional state and a healthy heart.* High stress levels, depression and social isolation may increase your risk of heart disease;* Increasing feelings of connectedness, community, loving and benevolence seem to profoundly reduce the risks.Myth #4: Heart Disease = Death

Heart disease is not a death sentence. It is never too late to quit smoking, start exercising or watch your diet. Even people who’ve had a heart attack can recover quickly, given the correct lifestyle adaptations.* A normal life, including sexual activity, is expected after recovery.* Around 35% of heart attack patients will never have another attack.The Most Dangerous Myth

The idea that a heart attack is easy to recognise is hazardous. Once symptoms become apparent, such as crushing chest pain, it can be too late. Many people with heart disease experience no symptoms at all, or confuse the symptoms with other illnesses.* Chest pain or bad indigestion may be signs that a heart attack is in progress, not on its way.* If you are in any doubt about symptoms, see your doctor immediately.

Monica Davidson writes for Australian health insurance provider ahm. For more about leading a healthy lifestyle, health insurance andhealth cover, visit the website.

What are my chances of getting cancer or heart disease?

roy — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 15:35:34 +0000

Question by Elizabeth: What are my chances of getting cancer or heart disease? I am a female and I want to know what my chances of getting cancer are? - My father has colon cancer - Everyone has had skin cancer in my family - I had high risk HPV - Every male in my family thus far has contracted heart disease.

What are my chances of getting cancer or heart disease?

Best answer:

Answer by WhatMy first stop would be wikipedia or google for a quick reference. I actually had a similar question not even 5 days ago, but I couldn’t find the answer. If it’s possible, try getting help from someone with more knowledge/experience/expertise, like a professional if it’s possible. This can be pretty important.

I saw a forum with this online, but I didn’t have time to read it all. Try checking it out. I want to help out more, but I’m not 100% sure about the answer. Sorry I’m not much help. I hope you found your answer! Good luck! W

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STEMI Heart Attack Patients Who Receive PCI Commonly Back In Hospital Again

roy — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:18:20 +0000

Results of an investigation published in the Nov…

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Overview of Heart diseases

roy — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:36:33 +0000

Article by Famous16

Heart is considered to be the most important organ of the human body as it is the main source of human life.

Heart disease refers to any condition of the heart where the cardiovascular system which comprises of the heart and the blood vessels is affected to be able to function normally. Cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease (CHD), and coronary artery disease are some terms synonymous to heart disease.

Basically, the human heart is a muscular organ of about the size of a fist and is located behind the left side of the chest bone. It comprises of four chambers and six blood vessels. The main function of the heart is to maintain and control the circulation of the blood throughout the body. It basically carries oxygenated blood and supplies it throughout the whole body, and in return gets the deoxygenated blood to which it again adds oxygen and circulates to the whole body. Another function of the heart is to transport carbon dioxide and other wastes materials to the lungs, kidneys, and liver to be discharged from the body.

Heart diseases may be structural or function. However, anything that hinders the heart’s functionality of pumping oxygen to the body, or by any means causes it to becomes less efficient is alarming as it results in interruption between the relationship of the heart with other organs of the body such as lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels.Heart disease may result in heart attack which is also referred to as myocardinal infraction. It may also cause congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, heart stroke, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), and even ischemia.

Coronary heart disease or Atherosclerosis is a type of heart disease in which in which the blood vessels responsible for carrying oxygen and blood to the heart become narrow. Blood vessels may become narrow as a result of building up of plaque on the inner lining (endothelium) of the artery walls or coronary arteries.

Coronary heart disease is the most prevalent and common cause of heart disease. However, it could be controlled by bringing little changes in lifestyle and also with the help of some supplements and medical treatment.

Peripheral Arterial Disease is another type of heart disease in which plaque builds up on the inner walls of the arteries which are responsible for carrying blood from the heart to head, limbs, and internal organs. Another name for this disease is atherosclerosis. In this the arteries may become narrow or even completely blocked out which consequently result in a diminution or obstruction of blood flow.

This is a serious condition as the obstruction in blood flow causes the patient to suffer from severe pain and numbness. A person suffering from this disease lacks the ability to fight infections. The obstructed blood flow, in severe conditions, also causes gangrene and amputation.

The chances of coronary heart symptoms are increased up to six or seven times in patients suffering from Peripheral Arterial disease.

Peripheral Arterial disease is also likely to increase the chances of obstruction of arteries of the legs. It also increases the chances of heart attack, stroke, or mini stroke.

Early diagnosis and treatment followed by lifestyle change is highly recommended in preventing any major loss or disability caused due to the disease.

Heart Valve Disease is another type of heart disease in which one or more than one valve of the heart become unable to work properly. Congestive Heart Failure is yet another type of heart symptoms in which the heart loses its ability to function the way it is designed to function. In this, the heart either becomes unable to supply blood to the entire body with enough force, or it may not get enough blood to be supplied to the whole body

In this article you will learn more about Heart diseases and its symptoms