Heart Talks

What is coronary heart disease?

Coronary heart disease is  also known as coronary artery disease and atherosclerotic heart disease. It is the result of buildup of atheromatous plaques within the walls of the arteries. As a result, the narrowing of the coronary arteries takes place.

Coronary heart disease statistics show that this disease caused approximately 452,300 deaths in 2004 and is the single leading cause of death in America today. Statistics also show that from 1994 to 2004 the death rate from coronary heart disease declined 33%.

Causes of coronary heart disease:

- Males are more prone to this disease
- Family history of the disease
- Being 65-years-old or greater
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Lack of physical activities
- Menopause in women
- Inflammation of the artery wall caused by infection

What are the signs and symptoms of coronary heart disease?

The signs and symptoms  of coronary heart disease can only be observed in the advanced state of the disease. Nearly all of people who suffer from coronary heart disease have no indication of its existence for long periods of time before they suffer from a stroke.

Symptoms are not always easily readable, because many people have clogged arteries for years before they realize they have a problem. Two most obvious symptoms are chest pain and shortness of breath.

Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease

- Have regular check ups
- Decrease cholesterol level
- Maintain ideal body
- Stop smoking.
- Have a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C.
- Exercise

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