The Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease is a condition affecting the heart and the coronary arteries. Coronary heart disease occurs when the heart is damaged by reduced blood supply to the heart muscles. That happens when fatty deposits build up on the inner linings of the blood vessels, resulting in constriction. The reduced blood supply to the heart muscles causes heart attack or angina. Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of heart attacks and is the most common type of heart disease. The Causes of Coronary Heart Disease There are many causes of coronary heart disease. Some are controllable by treatment or change of life style. One of the major causes of coronary heart disease is cigarette smoking. Many studies have clearly established the dangers of cigarette and tobacco smoking. The risk of coronary heart disease for a smoker is 2 -4 times that of a nonsmoker. Passive smokers also have higher risk of coronary heart disease. Obesity and lack of exercise can lead to coronary heart disease. While the heart is the strongest muscle in the body, obesity adds unnecessary load. Inactivity on the other hand, weakens the heart. Exercise is beneficial and also helps to control other risk factors for coronary heart disease such as cholesterol level and diabetes. High cholesterol level contributes to the risk of coronary heart disease through the higher risk of artery narrowing. Generally people with lower blood cholesterol levels due to the nature of their diet have lower rates of heart disease. Diabetes increases the risk of coronary heart disease even when the blood sugar level is kept under control. The risk of coronary heart disease is even higher when the blood sugar level is not controlled. Diabetes should work with their doctors to manage their condition along with the risk factors of coronary heart disease. Uncontrollable risk factors for coronary heart disease include aging, genetic and gender. Coronary heart disease affect all ages but is more prevalent after the age of forty and among the male population. Family history is also a factor determining the risk of coronary heart disease. However, leading a healthy life style goes a long way to minimise the risk of coronary heart disease. Diagnosis for Coronary Heart Disease Coronary angiography is used to diagnose coronary heart disease. A special dye is used in conjunction with x-rays to monitor the flow of blood through the heart. Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease The risk of coronary heart disease can be minimised by managing the various controllable risk factors. Avoid cigarette and tobacco smoking, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy diet. By staying healthy overall, the risk of many other ailments is reduced as well.
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