While some medical conditions are influenced by factors beyond our control, such as genetics, heart disease is different. There are many common risk factors for heart disease that you can control and significantly reduce your risk by making certain lifestyle choices.
The Reality of Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks, strokes, and other heart conditions, remains the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting people of all ages, genders, and races. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in three deaths each year due to heart disease (about 91,000 deaths) are preventable. While certain risk factors may not be avoidable, like family history, many can be managed and even eliminated through lifestyle changes.
4 Common Heart Disease Risk Factors You Can Control
Below are four common risk factors for heart disease that are controllable, offering you the opportunity to minimize your risk and dangers to heart health.
1. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the pressure of the blood against your artery walls is too high, forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood. This added strain on your heart and major organs can lead to serious complications if left uncontrolled. Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure typically has no noticeable symptoms, leaving measuring and monitoring your blood pressure the best way to track it. Following treatment plans, which may include medication, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes, can effectively control high blood pressure and lower your risk for heart disease.
2. Unhealthy Cholesterol Levels
The liver produces the amount of healthy cholesterol the body needs to function properly. However, certain foods can introduce additional cholesterol into the body. This extra cholesterol can build up in the arteries, restricting blood flow to vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. Like high blood pressure, high cholesterol usually doesn’t show signs, making regular blood tests crucial for tracking and managing levels. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet focusing on whole, minimally processed foods can help keep your cholesterol levels in check.
3. Obesity and Physical Inactivity
Obesity is defined as an excessive amount of body fat that presents a health risk and is directly linked to many medical conditions that put a strain on the heart, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation. Regular physical activity is crucial in managing weight and reducing the risk of heart disease. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of intense activity per week to help maintain a healthy weight. Paired with a well-balanced diet, regular physical activity can help combat obesity and significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Smoking
Smoking is the leading preventable risk factor for heart disease. It contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can eventually harden and lead to complications in the flow of oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Smoking also negatively impacts cholesterol levels, raises blood pressure, and damages various organs. The benefits of quitting smoking can have immediate and long-term effects, dramatically lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease.
24/7 Cardiology Care at Your Neighborhood ER & Hospital
While some risk factors for heart disease are beyond your control, many common ones are preventable or manageable. At Wylie ER, we provide compassionate, expert care 24/7. Whether you are experiencing chest pains or need immediate laboratory testing, our dedicated team is committed to ensuring you and your loved ones receive the care you deserve, helping you feel better quickly.
As American Heart Month comes to a close, we encourage you to share this article with your loved ones. Together, we can spread awareness and take meaningful steps toward better cardiovascular health.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Wylie ER and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
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