This is a condition that effects thousands. Being diagnosed with coronary heart disease (CHD) need not be a death sentence however.
The latest research and advances in medicine on heart disease have provided hope for millions of people who are directly affected by coronary heart disease. Prevention is obviously better than cure and there are a few basic tips that may help you prevent any attack and keep a healthy heart.
- This condition occurs when artery walls become coated. Atherosclerosis narrows the blood vessels and restricts supply of oxygen and blood to the heart. Atherosclerosis occurs naturally in the body, but high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels increase the narrowing effects.
- The primary symptom of coronary heart disease is angina. Angina is due to a lack of oxygen supply to your heart muscle, causing a feeling of heaviness, tightness or pain in the middle of your chest. This pain may also extend to your arms, neck, face or back.
- Angina is most likely during periods of exercise or other exertion, high stress periods or even during particularly cold weather. Angina can subside if you are able to stop the cause or apply certain medications.
- For many, unfortunately the first symptom is a heart attack. In the UK there are more than 270,000 each year. Heart attacks occur because the blood supply to the heart muscle is interrupted or stopped. However, the pain can not be relieved by rest and medical assistance must be sought.
- Treatment depends on age, how blocked arteries are, severity of symptoms. Drugs can be prescribed to improve conditions although some people require surgery to relieve the blockages in the blood vessels.
- Making very simple changes to your overall lifestyle can have significant effects on the onset of heart disease and all associated conditions. Taking more exercise and becoming more active in general as well as changing your diet to ensure fresh, wholesome food can make a huge difference to your wellbeing and the health of your heart.
Always consult your doctor before engaging on an exercise programme or if you suspect symptoms relating to the heart.
