Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, yet many people are unaware of how it develops, what symptoms to look out for and how they can protect their heart health. At Seal Medical, we are committed to supporting communities in tackling CVD by providing access to life-saving defibrillators and training equipment.
What is CVD?
CVD is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. This includes coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmias. These conditions are usually linked to a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis) and an increased risk of blood clots. CVD can also be associated with damage to the arteries in organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys and eyes.
Symptoms of CVD
The symptoms of CVD can vary depending on the condition but may include:
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Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
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Shortness of breath
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Palpitations (irregular or rapid heartbeats)
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Dizziness or fainting
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Fatigue or weakness
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Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
If you or someone you know experiences sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness, it may be a sign of a cardiac arrest — a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate attention.
Preventing CVD
While some risk factors for CVD (like age or family history) cannot be changed, there are many lifestyle choices that can significantly reduce your risk. Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can help. Regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week also plays a vital role. Avoiding smoking, managing stress and keeping an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are equally important.
Lowering the Risk of CVD
For those already at risk, additional steps can be taken to lower the likelihood of developing serious heart problems. Following prescribed medication schedules, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying informed about your health status are all effective ways to keep your heart in good condition.
How Seal Medical Can Help
At Seal Medical, we believe preparation can save lives. Our range of defibrillators and training solutions can make a crucial difference in an emergency. We offer semi-automatic defibrillators that guide the user with clear voice prompts, fully automatic defibrillators that deliver a shock without the need for manual activation, pre-owned defibrillators for a cost-effective option, and training devices to ensure your team knows how to act quickly and effectively.
Having a defibrillator on-site can double or even triple the chances of survival after a sudden cardiac arrest. When paired with regular training, your staff will have the confidence to respond swiftly in a crisis.
Cardiovascular disease remains a serious health challenge, but with prevention, education and the right emergency equipment, we can all play a part in reducing its impact. Seal Medical is here to support you with high-quality defibrillators and training devices that empower your community to respond quickly and effectively. Stay heart-healthy, stay prepared and let us help you make a life-saving difference.