CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES relate to problems or disorders associated with the heart and blood vessels. This is the leading cause of death in most industrialized countries. The two most common disorders are HYPERTENSION or commonly known as HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE and ATHEROSCLEROSIS or also known as HEART ATTACK. Here in the Philippines, heart attack is the leads the cause of death.
In HYPERTENSION or commonly known as High Blood Pressure, there is a gradual increase in resistance of the walls of the artery as blood flows through. Due to this, the blood pressure stays above 140/90 even if the person is inactive. If the blood pressure remains consistently high, this could lead to the hardening of the walls of the artery. When this happens, the artery may not be able to deliver as much oxygen to the brain, heart, and other vital organs.
In ATHERHOSCLEROSIS or Heart Attack, lipids and cholesterol are deposited in the arteries. If this happens continuously, the lipids will form plaques. Plaques are fatty deposits that can clog the arteries. They are made of cholesterol, fatty substance, calcium and fibrin ( a clotting material in the blood). The arteries cannot stretch as blood flows. As the opening of the artery narrows because of the plaque, less blood can pass through to reach the tissues. Just like in hypertension, the tissue is deprived of an adequate supply of oxygen.
Both Hypertension and Atherosclerosis cause damage to the heart muscles and could lead to a serious heart problem. Both could cause a stroke or brain damage.
The factors that could increase the risk of having these diseases are:
- Smoking
- Heredity
- High level of bad cholesterol in the blood
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- High level of sugar in the blood
But these cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by:
- Control your blood pressure
- Keep your cholesterol levels under control
- Eat healthy foods (ex. fish high in Omega 3, grapes, berries, oatmeals, dark chocolate, oranges)
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking
- Manage stress
To avoid developing any heart disease, lead and live a healthy life.
