Ask the Doctor: S. Abbas Agha, Interventional Cardiologist Hamilton Cardiology Associates What is heart disease? One in every four deaths in this country is caused by heart disease, and more than 610,000 Americans die of this disease each year. The term “heart disease” refers to several types of heart conditions. The most common type is coronary artery disease, which can cause a heart attack. Who is at risk of heart disease? Anyone can develop heart disease. It occurs when a substance called plaque builds up inside arteries. When this occurs, arteries can narrow over time, reducing blood flow to the heart. Smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, and not getting enough exercise can increase the risk for heart disease. Having high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes also increases your risk for developing heart disease. What are the signs and symptoms of heart disease? The symptoms of heart disease vary depending on the type of heart disease. Commonly, chest discomfort can be a first sign of a heart attack. However, someone having a heart attack may experience several different types of symptoms, such as: • Chest pain or discomfort • Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, back, arms or shoulder • Weakness, light-headedness, nausea, or a cold sweat • Shortness of breath If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately. Data supplied by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Hamilton Cardiology Associates 706.226.3434 hamiltonhealth.com/hpg 1436 Broadrick Drive Dalton, GA S. Abbas Agha, MD, is an interventional cardiologist with Hamilton Cardiology Associates and is board certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Internal Medicine, Nuclear Cardiology, Adult Comprehensive Echocardiography, and Vascular Ultrasound. Dr. Agha is married and has two children. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and hiking. As part of Hamilton Physician Group, Hamilton Cardiology Associates is the largest fullservice cardiology practice in the area.
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