This article focuses on one of the main types of heart disease: hypertension (often called high blood pressure). We will address many of the symptoms and highlight how Norvasc, one of the most preferred forms of treatment today, helps fight heart disease.
Putting aside the sudden appearance of the COVID-19 pandemic, heart disease is among the most major public health concerns in the United States to date. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for people across most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Around one hundred people die every hour in the US from some form of cardiovascular disease. Heart failure, coronary heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes account for one in every five deaths.
According to the CDC, “Most often, heart failure is caused by another medical condition that damages your heart. This includes coronary heart disease, heart inflammation, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, or an irregular heartbeat.”
The term ‘heart failure’ can’t be explained in a single sentence. It’s different from most other conditions, which have a reasonably straightforward ’cause – effect – result’ relationship. The progress of heart disease isn’t always so clear-cut.
There can be many causes of heart disease, some or all of which are interrelated. The effects, in many cases, also go on to become aggravating causes in a feedback loop. The result is called ‘heart disease,’ but it’s important to be able to separate the contributory factors so that a proper choice of treatment can be made.
What are the causes, effects, and results of hypertension?
Hypertension (generally regarded as having blood pressure higher than 120/80 Hg) is a condition that can damage blood vessels. The heart has to work harder to pump blood, and the higher pressures increase the risk of a heart attack, stroke, and other serious health issues. The elevated force of the blood pushing against artery walls will cause thickening and loss of flexibility. In turn, the heart then has to work even harder, creating a loop that will eventually lead to heart failure. Many lifestyle factors can lead to or worsen hypertension.
- Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood. This causes atherosclerosis, increases the risk of blood clots, and requires the heart to work much harder.
- The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves, which can also increase the risk of heart disease due to higher blood pressure.
- Cholesterol levels, especially ‘bad’ low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, create fatty plaque deposits that narrow blood vessels and make the heart work harder.
- For obese people, the extra weight puts more strain on the heart. It increases the risk of high blood pressure, creates more ‘bad’ cholesterol, and induces diabetes.
- A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of heart disease because it can contribute to obesity and higher cholesterol levels.
What are the leading pharmaceutical treatments for hypertension?
Antihypertensive medications help lower blood pressure and reduce the strain on the heart. The main types being prescribed today are:- Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) like Norvasc help fight heart disease by blocking the entry of calcium
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) block the enzyme angiotensin II which raises blood pressure
- Beta-blockers block the hormone epinephrine, which in turn causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force
- Diuretics improve the function of the kidneys.
Why you should buy Norvasc from IsraelPharm
IsraelPharm can supply both branded Norvasc or generic forms of amlodipine at great discount prices compared to US pharmacies:| Brand | Format | US retail price | IsraelPharm price |
| Norvasc | 10 mg x 30 tablets | $350.00 | $43.00 |
| Norvasc | 5 mg x 30 tablets | $258.00 | $32.00 |
| Generic Amlodipine | 10 mg x 30 tablets | $48.00 | $19.00 |
| Generic Amlodipine | 5 mg x 30 tablets | $45.00 | $14.00 |
FAQ
What are the side effects of calcium channel blockers?
There could be mild side effects that should clear once your body gets used to the meds. Discuss this with your prescribing doctor or pharmacist if they persist or worsen. The side effects may include:- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Heart palpitations
- Fatigue
- Flushing
- Headache
- Nausea
- Skin rashes
- Swelling of the feet or lower legs
