Heart disease is a broad term for a group of illnesses that impact how well the heart functions. It can affect the blood flow to the heart, disrupt the heart’s rhythm, or cause issues with the heart muscle and valves. One major form of heart disease is when the arteries that carry oxygen to the heart become clogged or narrowed, increasing the risk of heart attacks.
Causes:- Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices: Eating a diet high in unhealthy fats, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol use can contribute to heart problems.
- Genetics: A family history of heart disease can increase your risk.
- Other Health Conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity are all linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
- Age and Gender: As people age, the risk of developing heart disease rises. Men are generally at a higher risk, but women also face significant risk, especially after menopause.
- Age: The risk increases with age. People aged 65 and older are more likely to suffer from heart disease.
- Gender: While men tend to develop heart disease earlier, women catch up after menopause.
- Family History: If your parents or siblings had heart disease, you are more likely to develop it.
- Lifestyle: People who smoke, lead sedentary lifestyles, or have poor diets are at higher risk.
- Other Conditions: Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol are at greater risk.
For me, it’s a reminder of how important it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and be mindful of personal risks, like family history and other health conditions.