Cardio-vascular disorders is a term used to describe various heart, stroke and vascular (blood vessel) diseases. That is, cardio-vascular disorders are conditions of the heart and blood vessels.
There can be a number of precipitating factors that result in cardio-vascular disease, however the main underlying factor is atherosclerosis or the gradual build up of fatty deposits in the blood vessels. When these vessels become ‘clogged’ and narrowed the supply of blood flow to the brain, heart and other vital organs is affected.
Symptoms and characteristics
The typical symptoms of cardio-vascular disorders include (MDA Internet 2005):
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chest pain
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cyanosis or a bluish discolouration of the fingertips
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swelling in the lower legs and feet
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dyspnea which is a shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
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palpitations which is an irregular, fluttering or skipping heartbeat
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easy fatigability and a decrease in endurance.
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syncope (fainting, dizziness, or brief loss of consciousness).
Statistics
Cardiovascular disease is Australia’s largest health problem, affecting 3.67 million Australians. Cardio-vascular disorders resulted in 50 294 deaths in Australia in 2002 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2004).
Workplace adjustments and solutions
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
References
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2004, Heart, stroke and vascular diseases, Australian facts 2004, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, viewed 30 May 2007, <http://www.aihw.gov.au/publications/cvd/hsvd04/hsvd04-c02.pdf>.
MDA Internet 2005, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 30 May 2007, <http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)>.
Links to specific types of cardio-vascular disorders