The sets of disorders that affect the heart and blood circulation in the body, causing physiological activities to become unbalanced, are collectively known as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) or circulatory system diseases. These disorders impact the heart, blood vessels, or both, disrupting the normal flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body.

Major Types of Cardiovascular and Circulatory Disorders

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) : Caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances (plaque) in artery walls. This reduces blood flow to the heart and can lead to heart attacks, chest pain (angina), or strokes

• Heart Arrhythmias : Disorders where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly, affecting the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Symptoms include chest pain, dizziness, fainting, and palpitations

• Congenital Heart Defects : Structural heart problems present from birth, such as holes in the heart or malformed valves, which can impair heart function and circulation

• Cardiomyopathy : Diseases of the heart muscle that weaken the heart's pumping ability, leading to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs

• Heart Valve Disease : Conditions where heart valves do not open or close properly, causing blood flow obstruction or leakage. Causes include infections (e.g., rheumatic fever), congenital defects, or damage from heart attacks

• Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) : Occur when blood supply to the brain is blocked or temporarily disrupted, causing neurological damage

• Peripheral Artery Disease : Narrowing of arteries in limbs, leading to pain, numbness, and poor circulation

• Other Circulatory Disorders : Include hypertension (high blood pressure), venous thromboembolism (blood clots in veins), aortic aneurysm (artery enlargement), and conditions causing poor circulation and tissue damage

Symptoms Common to These Disorders

• Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting
• Pain, numbness, or weakness in limbs
• Swelling in legs, ankles, or abdomen
• Fatigue and exhaustion

Causes and Risk Factors

• Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup)
• High blood pressure
• Infections like rheumatic fever
• Genetic factors and congenital defects
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity

Summary

These cardiovascular and circulatory disorders disrupt the balance of physiological activities by impairing the heart's ability to pump blood and the blood vessels' capacity to transport oxygen and nutrients efficiently. This imbalance can lead to serious health consequences, including heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death