Vigour – Health and Sports Nutrition

An aneurysm is an abnormal condition that is characterized by the bulge or swelling in a blood vessel wall. It usually develops in the shape of a tiny blood-filled grape at the point where a blood vessel branches. This small overgrowth can rupture by the force of pumping blood and may lead to death within minutes. Although an aneurysm can develop anywhere throughout the circulatory system, it particularly occurs in blood vessels of the brain and along the aorta.

There are numerous factors that may lead to the formation of aneurysms in the blood vessels. They include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, weakening of blood vessels, age, physical trauma to head or chest, syphilis, infection, congenital aneurysm and polycystic kidney disease.

If left untreated, an aneurysm can lead to congestive heart failure, stroke, paralysis, kidney failure, heart attack, epilepsy, brain haemorrhage, impaired blood circulation, compression of nearby nerves and dissecting aneurysm.

Aneurysms can be diagnosed with physical examination, ultrasound, MRI and CT scans. Treatment options include stent insertion, blood pressure control, medication therapy and surgical repair of aneurysms.

Consumption of heart-healthy foods and a cardio-friendly supplement may help protect you against the risks of aneurysms and other heart conditions. Higher Nature Cardio is a popular brand on the market that contains heart nutrients to support a healthy heart and circulation. This supplement makes use of vitamins B-complex and E, antioxidants co-enzyme Q10, bromelain, arginine and tri-methyl glycine in its formulation. When combined with a regular cardio exercise routine and balanced diet, Higher Nature Cardio promotes healthy heart and arteries.

Giant Cell Arteritis is a cardiovascular disorder that occurs due to the inflammation of the arteries. It is an autoimmune disease which means that your body’s own immune system mistakenly starts attacking cardiovascular system particularly lining of the arteries. Inflammation of the arteries is caused by the local deposition of antibodies and protein compounds.

The factors that may contribute to the development of this disease include ageing, genetic reasons (not yet well defined), stress, depression, hormonal imbalances, and alcohol consumption. The symptoms of giant cell arteritis include stabbing pains in head particularly at the back of the head, night sweats, fever, jaw claudication( aching in the jaws), loss of taste, tingling on the tongue, sudden painless loss of sight, double vision, pain in the temple area, fatigue, lethargy, weight loss, lack of appetite, and stiffness around the hip girdles and across the upper arms, shoulders and neck. In severe cases, one might experience a permanent visual loss, kidney failure, skin problems, tinnitus (noises in the ear), vertigo (dizziness), heart attack and brain stroke.

Giant Cell Arteritis is diagnosed with blood tests, biopsy of the temporal artery, examination of the retina, and thyroid function. Treatment includes oral steroids, intravenous steroids, and anti-inflammatory drugs. It also makes a good idea for patients to regularly take a dietary supplement that helps support a healthy cardiovascular system.

Cardiored Krill Oil Omega 3 is a popular brand on the market that makes use of omega-3 fatty acids and a naturally occurring antioxidant called astaxanthin in its formulation. This supplement helps maintain the health of the arteries and keeps the serum cholesterol levels in check. You should take 1-2 soft gelatine capsules daily.