There are a number of heart problems in humans but what do we mean specifically by heart disease?
Heart disease, also known as coronary heart disease or CHD, occurs when blood cannot reach the heart muscles due to the accumulation of plaque in the coronary arteries. Coronary arteries are blood vessels that carry blood and nutrients to the heart and Plague is cholesterol deposits in the arteries.
CHD can lead to heart failure in extreme cases. The severity depends on how much the heart muscles have lost its capability to pump blood. Because coronary heart diseases develop gradually, it is almost impossible to detect it in the early stages.
There are a few symptoms which can point towards coronary heart diseases:
- Chest Pain – While there can be various reasons for chest pain, CHD causes chest pain, medically termed angina. Angina causes squeezing or tightness in the center of the chest which is triggered by any emotional or physical stress.
- Shortness of breath – If the heart muscles are not able to pump enough blood you may experience shortness of breath or fatigue.
- Heart Attack – If the coronary artery is completely blocked, it will lead to heart attack
How to avoid CHD?
Obesity or overweight: Obesity is considered for potential risk in the development of CHD. Workout of at least 150 -300 minutes a week could control obesity.
Poor diet: This plays a role in your body weight, cholesterol levels, and overall health. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, poultry, and fish in your diet. Limit your intake of fats, sodium (salt), sugar, and red meat.
Smoking and alcohol: These unhealthy unnecessary habits affect your body oxygen level. They can damage your blood vessels and tighten your airways.
High cholesterol: Cholesterol creates plaque. There are two types of cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is bad. High-density lipoprotein is good. You should have low LDL and high HDL levels. You can help control these levels with medicine and a healthy lifestyle.
High blood pressure: For most people, your blood pressure is high when it is at or above 130/80. Age and certain health conditions can affect normal blood pressure levels. You can help control your blood pressure with medicine. A healthy lifestyle and reduced stress also help.
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