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Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death globally, claiming millions of lives each year. Often dubbed the "silent threat," CAD develops gradually as plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, the vessels responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. This plaque buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow and putting your heart at risk. In this blog, let's delve deeper into the details of CAD including risk factors, symptoms, early detection and prevention tips shared by our expert cardiologists in Gururgram
Synopsis
Risk Factors: Unveiling Your Vulnerability
While some risk factors for CAD are unavoidable, like age and family history, many others can be controlled through lifestyle modifications. Here's a breakdown of major coronary artery disease causes:
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Age: The risk of CAD increases with age, especially for men over 45 and women over 55.
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Family History: Having a close relative with CAD significantly increases your risk.
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High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension damages the inner lining of arteries, accelerating plaque buildup.
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High Cholesterol: High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and low levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol contribute to plaque formation.
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Diabetes: Diabetes disrupts how your body uses blood sugar, leading to inflammation and increased risk of CAD.
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Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases inflammation, promoting plaque buildup.
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Obesity and Physical Inactivity: Excess weight and lack of exercise put a strain on your heart and contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels.
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Unhealthy Diet: A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and refined carbohydrates can worsen cholesterol levels and increase inflammation.
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Stress: Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and contribute to unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Consult our cardiology hospital in Gurugram if you have CAD signs and symptoms and need
Symptoms: When to Listen to Your Body
CAD can progress silently for years without any noticeable symptoms. However, as the arteries narrow significantly, you might experience some warning signs. Here are some major coronary artery disease symptoms:
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Angina: This is the most common symptom, characterized by chest pain, tightness, pressure, or discomfort. It's often triggered by exertion, emotional stress, or cold weather and typically eases with rest.
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Shortness of Breath: You might feel breathless, especially during physical activity or when lying down.
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Fatigue: CAD can cause unexplained tiredness and reduced stamina.
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Discomfort in the upper body: Pain or discomfort can radiate to your shoulders, arms, back, jaw, or neck.
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Sweating: Cold sweats can accompany chest pain or discomfort.
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Palpitations: You might feel a fluttering or racing sensation in your chest.
It's crucial to note that these symptoms can sometimes mimic other conditions. If you experience any of them, especially chest pain, seek immediate medical attention to rule out a heart attack.
Consult our cardiologist in Gurugram if you are experiencing CAD symptoms and need coronary heart disease treatment.
Early Detection and Intervention is Key
The good news is that CAD is a manageable condition. Early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly slow its progression and prevent complications like heart attack and stroke. Here are some steps you can take to protect your heart health:
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Maintain a healthy weight: Aim for a healthy body mass index (BMI) through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
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Eat a heart-healthy diet: Choose foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit saturated and trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugar.
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Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
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Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to manage stress levels.
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Quit smoking: Smoking cessation is one of the most significant steps you can take to improve your heart health.
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Control blood pressure and cholesterol: Work with your doctor to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels through medication and lifestyle modifications if needed.
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Schedule regular checkups: Regular visits to the expert cardiologists in Gurgaon allow for early detection and intervention of potential risk factors.
By understanding your risk factors, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can take control of your heart health and reduce your risk of coronary artery disease. Remember, early detection and intervention are critical for a healthier and longer life. Book a consultation with our experienced cardiologists in Gurugram for diagnosis or treatment of coronary heart disease.
We also invite you to explore our blog page to read the latest blogs shared by our doctors on heart health and other trending healthcare topics.
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