Cause of Heart Disease
Causes of Heart Disease Within Your Control
Some people get disheartened when they think about the possible
causes of heart disease. It may appear as if your heart's
health is dictated by factors that you have no control over.
It is also a fact that there are causes of heart disease
that you can't change. For example, if you have a family history
of close relatives who are victims of heart disease at a young
age, you can honestly say that the genetics card is stacked
against you. Likewise, you can't change your race, your gender,
or your age, all factors which play a part in heart health.
Unfortunately, those are the risk factors that beyond your
control. The good news is that there are several causes of
heart disease that are under your direct control as well.
Most of the time, a healthy lifestyle might just be the deciding
factor in you remaining healthy, even if other uncontrollable
factors put you at risk.
Now, let’s look at some of the causes of heart disease
that you can control.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure puts your heart harder at work and can
cause microscopic damage to the arteries which allow fatty
plaques to begin to form. Always ask your doctor about what
your normal blood pressure should be. If your BP is running
high, then get your blood pressure checked regularly. Make
sure that the medications are taken exactly as prescribed.
Losing excessive weight and adapting an active lifestyle can
also help lower your blood pressure.
High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a mixed bag, it can be caused by genetics,
or your unhealthy lifestyle. But, you should find out your
cholesterol level from your doctor regularly, follow the diet
and medication regimens your doctor lays out.
Smoking
It's been a known fact that smoking damages your heart and
lungs. It is also a fact that smoking is equally as addictive
as crack cocaine. If you are determined to quit smoking, then
it is better that you get plenty of support. The best persons
around are your family, friends, and coworkers to back you
up. Besides, you can join an online forum or support group
to walk you through. Talk to other former smokers and ask
for tips for quitting. You should also ask for support from
your physician to recommend you some methods, in fact a nicotine
patch might spell the difference between success and failure.
Obesity
Being overweight will strain your heart more. Of course,
if losing weight were easy, the thousands of manufacturers
of diet products and exercise equipment would be winding up
their businesses. This is one time to ignore the experts and
find a way that works for you. Keep in mind that you need
not lose weight rapidly. So, even little weight loss can ease
some of the stress on your heart and provide a health benefit.
There are many causes of heart disease. There may be factors
that beyond your control but there are also factors within
your control. So, why not schedule a visit with your doctor
to discuss the causes of heart disease and get his or her
recommendations on how you can minimize your risk for heart
problems.
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