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“YOUR HEART”

Understanding The Human Heart

By Al Rauf OkalPublished about a year ago Updated 11 months ago 4 min read
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The heart is a crucial organ in the human body, and functions to pump blood throughout the circulatory system. It is located in the chest cavity, between the lungs, and is roughly the size of a fist. The heart is a complex organ made up of four chambers, each with its own unique function.

Blood from the body and lungs enters the two upper chambers, known as the atria, and is sent downward to the two lower chambers, known as the ventricles. While the left ventricle sends oxygenated blood to the rest of the body, the right ventricle pushes deoxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation.

The pericardium, a protective sac that surrounds the heart, is joined to a system of blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the organ. The heart also has its own electrical system that regulates its beating, known as the cardiac conduction system.

The heart's beating is controlled by a group of specialized cells in the right atrium called the sinoatrial node. These cells act as the heart's natural pacemaker, sending electrical signals that cause the heart to contract and pump blood.

Major Conditions Affecting The Heart:

There are many conditions that can affect the heart, ranging from mild to life-threatening. Here are some of the major conditions of the heart:

1. Coronary artery disease: This is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. This can lead to chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.

2. Heart failure: This is a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and feet.

3. Arrhythmias: This refers to any abnormal heart rhythm, which can be too fast, too slow, or irregular. Some arrhythmias can be harmless, while others can be life-threatening.

4. Valve disorders: This is a condition where the heart's valves don't function properly, either due to narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation). This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in the legs and feet.

5. Congenital heart defects: These are structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. They can range from mild to severe, and require medical intervention.

6. Cardiomyopathy: This is a condition where the heart muscle becomes enlarged or thickened, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently.

7. Pericarditis: This is an inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart, which can cause chest pain and other symptoms.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR HEART:

Taking care of your heart is good for a healthy life. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is estimated that more than 17.9 million people die each year from cardiovascular diseases (WHO records 2023). However, there are many steps you can take to keep your heart healthy and reduce your risk of heart disease, some of them include:

1. Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart. Exercise helps to improve blood circulation, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels. Its advisable to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, and try to include activities that increase your heart rate.

2. A healthy diet: A healthy diet can help to lessen the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels, loweing blood pressure and maintaining a normal body weight. Try to consume a diet rich in fresh produce (fruits and vegetables), whole grains, and lean protein sources like beans, fish, and chicken. Its advisable to Steer clear of processed snacks and fast meals, which are heavy in saturated and trans fats.

3. A healthy bodyweight: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of heart disease, so it's essential to maintain a healthy weight. Aim to maintain a BMI (body mass index) between 18.5 and 24.9, and try to lose weight if you are overweight or obese.

4. Quit Smoking: One of the biggest risk factors for heart disease is smoking. By giving up smoking, you can lower your risk of developing heart disease and enhance your general health. Speak to your doctor or a smoking cessation professional if you need assistance quitting.

5. Manage stress:Since stress can harm your heart health, it's critical to learn how to control stress in a healthy way. Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing as methods of relaxation. Make time for enjoyable pursuits like reading, listening to music, and spending time with loved ones.

6. Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels: High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease. It's essential to monitor these levels regularly and take steps to manage them if they are high. Your doctor can help you develop a plan to manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Taking care of your heart is essential for a healthy life. By exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, managing stress, and monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and enjoy a long and healthy life. If you have any concerns about your heart health, speak to your doctor (Cardiologist) or a healthcare professional, soonest!

Yours Truly,

Al Rauf Okal

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About the Creator

Al Rauf Okal

Do you love your body? I am an enthusiast of healthy living. I’ll be sharing on ways of living healthy. We got to enjoy life and make the best out of it. Make a point to subscribe, support and give reviews.

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