What You Need to Know About the Causes of Heart Disease
Chronic high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder to circulate blood through the arteries, which can lead to thickening and stiffening of the arterial walls. This increased pressure may damage the arteries’ inner lining, causing atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque that narrows and hardens the arteries, restricting blood flow. Over time, this added strain can cause the heart to enlarge or thicken, potentially resulting in heart failure or other complications.
High blood pressure also contributes to the formation of blood clots and can lead to the rupture of weakened arteries, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, persistent high blood pressure can damage the kidneys, complicating heart disease and potentially leading to kidney failure.
Other key risk factors and early warning signs of heart disease include:
– **Diabetes**: Both diabetes and prediabetes significantly increase the risk of heart disease.
– **Obesity**: Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, heightens the risk.
– **Sedentary Lifestyle**: Lack of physical activity contributes to weight gain and poor cardiovascular health.
– **Unhealthy Diet**: Diets rich in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can lead to heart disease.
– **Smoking**: Tobacco use harms blood vessels and contributes to heart disease.
– **Family History**: A family history of heart disease may indicate a genetic predisposition.
– **Chronic Stress**: Long-term stress negatively impacts heart health.
– **Sleep Apnea**: Untreated sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
Managing blood pressure through lifestyle adjustments, medication, and regular check-ups is crucial for reducing risks and maintaining heart health.
