Potential dangers for heart diseases that you have the ability to alter | Health

Heart diseases are the ones that affect the heart and blood vessels and identifying characteristics and lifestyle habits that can increase the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack is important since they serve as risk factors. Although some of these risk factors can be changed, others are not within our control.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, shared, “Some conventional risk factors associated with heart attacks include smoking, high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol, diabetes, and being overweight or obese. Moreover, there are several other factors that can elevate the risk of experiencing a heart attack. These include having a family history of early heart disease. High cholesterol levels, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease, chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis as well as HIV/AIDS infection. A history of preeclampsia during pregnancy or experiencing early menopause are also considered additional risks for heart attacks.”

He added, “Another frequently ignored factor is air pollution. Long-term exposure to pollutants such as fine particulate matter has been connected with numerous negative health effects, including an increased risk of heart disease. Particulate matter can enter the bloodstream through inhalation and stimulate inflammatory responses within blood vessels, leading to plaque formation and arterial stiffness. Addressing sleep patterns has gained attention as research suggests that poor quality or insufficient sleep can contribute to the development of heart illness through various mechanisms including altered metabolism and increased inflammation.”

Risk factors you can modify:

The health expert revealed, “Tobacco consumption poses a significant threat to heart health as it is closely linked to heart attacks and strokes. The presence of nicotine in cigarettes and e-cigarettes leads to a faster heartbeat and high blood pressure levels. Furthermore, smoking raises the likelihood of blood clots forming while also promoting the development of arterial plaque. Notably, even individuals who do not smoke themselves are at an increased risk for heart disease due to exposure to secondhand smoke.”

Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre concluded, “While certain risk factors like age and family history cannot be altered, lifestyle choices play a significant role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to heart illness. Managing chronic stress levels, prioritizing adequate sleep habits and paying attention to air quality are all crucial steps toward maintaining a healthy heart.”

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