Heart disease: Are you at risk?

Cardiovascular disease, also known as heart disease, is a leading cause of death worldwide. The good news is that many of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease are preventable. By taking steps to reduce your risk, you can improve your heart health and prevent serious health problems in the future. Here are some of the main risk factors of cardiovascular disease and what you can do to prevent them.

High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. To reduce your risk, manage your blood pressure so that it remains at or near the safe reading of 120/80 mmHg. You can achieve this through regular exercise, a healthy diet, and medication if prescribed by your doctor.

High Cholesterol: High levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. To reduce your cholesterol levels, eat a healthy diet that’s low in saturated and trans fats, and exercise regularly. Avoid fried food and foods with junk calories such as packaged food and bakery products. If your cholesterol levels are high, you may be prescribed medication. Take them as prescribed and get a regular check-up to adjust the dose according to your changing needs.

Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can damage many organs including your heart. To manage your diabetes and reduce your risk, keep your blood sugar levels under control through medication, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. Get a regular check up manage your diabetes and check for complications.

Obesity: Being overweight puts immense strain on your cardiovascular system. Over a period of time, this can damage your heart. To maintain a healthy weight, eat a healthy diet that’s low in calories and high in nutrients, and exercise regularly. If you are unable to reduce your excess weight, consult a doctor.

Smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of cardiovascular disease. To reduce your risk, quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

Stress: Chronic stress can lead to hypertension and various other ailments. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to overcome stress.

Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to unhealthy weight gain which is a risk factor for heart disease. To reduce your risk, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

A note of caution:
While exercising is good for you, too much exercise can lead to serious heart problems. Following a very strict diet, adopting a heavy weight training schedule and putting your body through punishing routines can cause acute cardiac events in the younger population.
Before you take up any strenuous exercise regimen, get the all clear from your doctor. Exercise for health and listen to your body. Pushing boundaries can be good to a certain extent, but when overdone, it can cause serious damage.

In conclusion, preventing cardiovascular disease requires a proactive approach to heart health. Take precautionary measures to keep your heart ticking fine.
If you have any concerns about your heart health, be sure to consult the best cardiologist in Bihar at our hospital.