subject: Heart Disease Risks And Prevention [print this page] There are many factors to take into consideration with heart disease. One of the most common types is coronary artery disease. It is also referred to as arteriosclerosis. There are ways to recognize and prevent this frequent killer. Here are some things to take into consideration.
You Do Not See It Coming.
This disease can take many years to develop. Most times you will not be aware that you have a problem until it presents itself. In addition, that could be too late. Gradual deposits within the arteries can bring it about. The deposits are made of fatty tissue. This is also referred to as plaque. In time, the plaque build-up becomes worse. The blood flow in the arteries slowly gets restricted. It is like water running through a hose. When the pathway narrows, less water flows and the force is increased. When an artery is narrowed, a blood clot can lodge within the area. This may block off the flow of blood completely. When this happens to the heart, you have a heart attack. The heart starts to die from lack of oxygen.
Causes
Lifestyle is a big influence. Eating a high fat and high cholesterol diet can be a factor. Sedentary lifestyle may also be a cause.
Genetics may also play a big role. Often times, heart problems run in families. If you have a close relative with a heart condition, you may also be as risk.
Smoking has been linked to arteriosclerosis. The act of smoking has an effect on plaque build-up within the blood vessels.
Blood sugar problems can also be an indicator. Diabetes increases the risks with such conditions.
Age is also a factor. The longer we live, the greater the chance of plaque build-up. However, it is affecting young people also.
Symptoms
Symptoms of arteriosclerosis can be non-existent. Elevated blood pressure might be an indicator. A person may feel chest pain and nausea. Any type of heart attack symptom can mean the presence of this disease. Urgent medical care may be need, in those cases.
Treatments
The best agreed upon treatment is prevention. A lifestyle that contains exercise, fruits and vegetables is recommended. Limiting salt and fatty foods is also a good thing. Management for conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol are very important. They are also known as silent killers. If you have had a heart attack it will be very important to listen to your doctor. You may need to take medications and revamp your lifestyle.
Learn more about it. The more you know, the better you are equipped to deal with it. Visit libraries or online search engines.
Conclusions
Heart disease is a silent killer because there may be no symptoms. It takes many years to develop. It is very important to get regular checkups. There are things that you can do to prevent this problem. Education is a great tool for effective treatment.
