A CV event, or cardiovascular event, refers to any type of problem or disease affecting the heart and blood vessels. CV events are a leading cause of death and disability globally. Some common examples of CV events include:
- Heart attack: Also known as a myocardial infarction, a heart attack occurs when the blood supply to the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This can cause part of the heart muscle to be damaged or die.
- Stroke: A stroke occurs when there is a disruption of blood flow to the brain, either due to a blocked artery or the rupture of a blood vessel. This can result in brain damage and a range of symptoms, such as paralysis, difficulty speaking, and confusion.
- Angina: Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is a common symptom of coronary artery disease.
- Arrhythmia: An arrhythmia is a problem with the rhythm of the heartbeat, such as a rapid or slow heartbeat. Some arrhythmias can be serious and increase the risk of stroke or heart attack.
- Aortic aneurysm: An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the aorta, the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
CV events are often preventable through lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Treatment for CV events typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, medical procedures or surgery. Early detection and treatment can help reduce the risk of serious complications and improve outcomes.
