Heart disease, also called cardiovascular disease, is a top cause of death worldwide. There are many diseases that fall under the general category of heart disease and involve damage to either the heart itself or the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the heart (i.e. arteries and veins). Common examples of heart disease include coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. It is valuable to know what causes heart disease so that we can help identify prevention strategies and/or possible early treatments we can initiate.
1. Unhealthy Eating
Habits An unhealthy diet contains saturated fats, trans fats, salt, and added sugar. Insufficient control of any of these can lead to higher blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as increase the plaque buildup in your arteries. Over time, the plaque buildup also worsens the stated conditions above (called atherosclerosis). Atherosclerosis restricts the blood flow to the heart which, over time, can cause fatal heart attacks or strokes.
2. A lack of physical activity
As we know, a sedentary lifestyle will often lead to weight gain, contributing to obesity, higher blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. All of which are major risk factors for developing heart disease. Regular physical activity benefits the heart by wearing and strengthening the muscle.
3,Smoking
By increasing blood pressure, diminishing blood oxygenation, harming the artery lining, and increasing workload on the heart, smoking harms the heart. It also increases the risk of blood clots that lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other vascular conditions.
4. Excessive Whiskey Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and contribute to high cholesterol levels. With long-term excessive use, the heart muscle will weaken and potentially cause heart failure.
5. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure increases workload on the heart and the blood vessels. If uncontrolled, it can cause blood vessels to become damaged, leading to coronary artery disease and heart failure.
6. High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is present in the blood. If levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol are high, it can coat the artery lining leaving a residue (plaque), which narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow.
7,Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes are at a greater risk of heart disease because high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, and also nerves that control the heart.
8. Obesity
Being overweight or obese makes you more likely to develop conditions that lead to heart disease like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
9. Stress
Chronic stress may damage arteries and worsen other risk factors for heart disease. Individuals under stress may also be more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as overeating, smoking, or failing to exercise.
10. Genetics and Family History
Having a family history of heart disease can increase your risk. While you can’t alter your genes, your knowledge of your risk could have you taking preventive measures for heart disease.
Prevention is best!
Even though you can’t change risk factors like age or family history, there are many causes of heart disease that are preventable. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle-by eating well, being active, eliminating tobacco use, responding to stress and getting regular check-ups-you can help reduce your own risk significantly.If you would like this articles voice to be less formal, shorter, or geared towards a certain audience (like teens or seniors), just let me know!
