Former Vice President Dick Cheney Dies After Long History of Heart Issues 

By: Ruelle Champion

Former Vice President of the United States, Dick Cheney, recently died at age 84. His family released a statement sharing he passed of complications from pneumonia and heart disease.

Cheney’s history of heart complications is well documented. He had his first heart attack at age 37 in 1978 and his fifth in 2010. Cheney also underwent major cardiovascular surgeries including a quadruple-bypass surgery in 1988, placement of a defibrillator-pacemaker in 2001, a left-ventricular assist device (LVAD) in 2010, and eventually a heart transplant in 2012.

The former vice president had a history of heavy smoking and high cholesterol. The progression of Cheney’s heart disease, starting from damage earlier in his life, shows​ the importance of paying attention to early risk factors and lifestyle choices.

Managing heart health, especially with chronic heart disease, is a lifelong journey. Even with advancements in medical technology and consistent monitoring, embracing lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

Quitting smoking, keeping a healthy diet to manage cholesterol, maintaining regular exercise, and monitoring blood pressure are all vital to heart health.

It’s also important to be aware of the signs that there’s an issue with the heart. Chest pain, shortness of breath, and unusual tiredness are all signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Symptoms can also differ in men and women. Men tend to have more “traditional” signs, like chest pain, but women can experience dizziness and nausea as well.

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States but there are plenty of ways to maintain a normal life. Prevention through healthy lifestyle choices, routine check-ups, and keeping up with treatment can make a difference.

Image: Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons