The cardiologist teaches attitudes that help prevent some cardiovascular problems
Heart disease is a broad term and, according to cardiologist Dr. Luiz Antonio Campos, encompasses several heart and vascular diseases. People who have risk factors are more likely to develop certain heart and blood vessel diseases. “There are several risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which can be divided into immutable and changeable”, explains the cardiologist.
immutable factors
Immutable factors are those that we cannot change and, therefore, cannot treat. They are: hereditary, age and gender.
changing factors
They are the factors we can influence, change, prevent or cure. I am: smoke, high cholesterolhypertension, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, diabetes and stress.
Heart disease in men and women
Men are more at risk of heart disease in youth and middle age, while women are more at risk in postmenopausal and older age. According to Dr. Luiz Antonio Campos, this happens due to hormonal problems.
Menopause, for example, deteriorates the health of the vessel wall due to a hormone deficiency. For this reason, postmenopausal women suffer from a higher incidence of high cholesterol, diabetes, arterial hypertension (high blood pressure), and visceral obesity.
types of heart disease
As the cardiologist explains, the cardiovascular disease include: coronary artery disease, stroke, angina, acute coronary syndrome, aortic aneurysm, arrhythmias, congenital heart disease, heart failure, and rheumatic heart disease. “The most common are ischemic heart disease and atherosclerosis,” he adds.
ischemic heart disease
Ischemic heart disease includes heart disease triggered by the buildup of fat in the walls of vessels and arteries, causing narrowing, difficulty, or blockage of blood flow. The narrowing can lead to angina pectoris and total obstruction, which is an acute myocardial infarction.
atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis affects large and medium-sized arteries, is triggered by accumulation of fat, calcium and other substances on the inner walls of the arteries. The reduction in the caliber of the artery causes a decrease in the amount of blood that can pass and, consequently, increases the effort of the heart to pump. This effort causes high blood pressure, stroke and coronary heart disease.
Causes of heart disease
According to Dr. Luiz Antonio Campos, the causes of heart disease can be identified by risk factors, which can be divided into three groups: medical conditions, lifestyle factors and hereditary factors.
- Medical conditions: high levels of bad cholesterol in the blood, high blood pressure and diabetes;
- Lifestyle factors: smoking, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity and excessive alcohol consumption;
- Hereditary factors: Genetic factors likely play a role in high blood pressure, heart disease, and other vascular conditions. However, people with a family history of cardiovascular disease are also likely to share the same environment and risk factors.
Symptoms of heart disease
Symptoms for heart disease sufferers, according to cardiologist Dr. Luiz Antonio Campos, are varied, but we can mention dyspnea, chest pain or discomfort, palpitations, syncope, cough and hemoptysis.
Ways to protect the heart
There are several ways to prevent cardiovascular disease. Agree with the doctor. Luiz Antonio Campos, it is important to check your cholesterol level regularly and blood pressure. In addition, it is necessary “to take care of your diet and your weight to keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control. To do this, avoid foods high in fat, such as fried foods, and introduce more grains and fruits into your food routine ” , says the doctor.
For smokers, the main recommendation is: “Stop smoking immediately. Smoking, among other evils, accelerates the development of atherosclerosis by damaging the walls of the arteries, which facilitate the deposit of cholesterol”, warns the cardiologist.
Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle is another key tip. For what, practice physical exercises regularly. “Physical activities are beneficial to overall health and reduce the risk of developing various ailments,” says the cardiologist.
Again according to Dr. Luiz Antonio Campos, reducing stress is also an important factor in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. “A stressful routine favors the onset of various health problems, which can be avoided by facing life with more serenity,” he concludes.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
