Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. In fact, studies indicate that about one in four deaths are related to this condition. While the understanding and treatment of heart disease has improved over time, there are still many things that people do not know about this ailment. Here are 20 such facts about heart disease that you probably did not know about.
All Ages are at Risk
Contrary to popular belief, heart disease does not just plague the elderly. In fact, it can occur at any age.
Stress is a Big Factor
Stress changes blood chemistry, making it more prone to clotting, narrowing and vessel inflammation leading to heart disease.
Gum Disease is Related to Heart disease
Maintaining good oral hygiene help to curb heart disease.
Fruits and Vegetables Can Save Your Life
Consuming more fruits and vegetables can lessen your chance of developing coronary heart disease.
Women are More Susceptible to Heart Attack
Women who are middle-aged, diabetic or overweight are more susceptible to heart attacks.
Pain is Not the Only Sign of Heart Attack
One symptom of a heart attack can be persistent cold sweats and a lightheaded stupor that cannot be explained.
Occupational Hazards Increase The Risk
Certain occupations, such as shift work or any job that incurs a constantly stressful environment can increase the risk of heart disease.
Keeping Weight in Check is Essential
A body mass index (BMI) of <25 reduces your risk of developing this disease. Losing weight can help control cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes, reducing the risk of getting sick.
Sleep plays a Key Role
It has been scientifically proven that a good night’s sleep of at least 7 hours significantly lowers the chance of developing heart disease.
The Impact of Menopause and Heart disease Women
Rates of intake for estrogen hormone replacement slightly increases heart disease in women, especially those who begin therapy when they are 60 or older.
Diabetes Increases Heart Disease Risk
People suffering from diabetes are more predisposed to developing heart ailments.
Action Limits Risk
Engaging in physical activity by walking and swimming can increase the chances of living healthier and minimizing your chances of getting heart ailments.
Arthritis and Heart Disease are Linked
Autopsies have shown that a link exists between arthritis in early adulthood and increased risk of coronary heart disease.
Heart Disease and Asthma
Asthamatic adults face are 70% more likely to face coronary heart disease than people without asthma symptoms.
Alcohol is Harmful to Your Heart
Consuming too much alcohol can deteriorate the heart condition instead of providing health benefits.
Cholesterol Has No Bounds
Cholesterol does not discriminate. People of any gender, race, ethnicity or gender are predisposed to hypertension.
Heart Disease Is Costly
According to studies conducted by modern research centers, about $316 billion is used to remedy and curb this disease yearly.
Family Genetics May Play a Role in Heart Disease
The occurrence of significant heart conditions in the immediate family significantly increases the probability of acquiring heart disease over time.
Meditating Reduces Heart Disease & High Blood Pressure
Researchers say that Transcendental Meditation also known as TM provides a natural way to cure high rates of heart attack and stroke.
Blood Type Matters
Research demonstrates that people with non-O blood types are susceptible to higher probabilities of cardiovascular diseases.
High Blood Pressure and Cigarette Smoking Correlates to Heart Disease
Both cigarette smokers and individuals with mitotic metabolic blood pressure are more predisposed to heart diseases.
Understanding and reducing your risk factors for heart disease can help to promote heart health and reduce your chance of ever developing this potentially deadly disease.