The Risk Factors for Ischemic Heart Disease
A narrowing of the arteries that creates a blockage impeding blood flow to the heart is referred to in medical terms as Ischemic Heart Disease. This disease is the result of cholesterol deposits sticking to the artery wall which result in hardening of the arteries. When this occurs, blood flow to the heart is either blocked or slowed in flow. When arteries become hardened it is referred to as atherosclerosis. This terminology is interchangeable with another medical term, arteriosclerosis. Both of these terms refer to the decrease or blockage of blood flow to the heart.
High cholesteril and triglyceride levels are what creates the placque buildup or arteriosclerosis. When this occurs, blockage occurs in the blood vessels which are the life giving forces that feed the heart. Once this has occurred, the blockage to the heart will result in heart attack symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and irregular heart beat. However, if heart disease was already present, the patient will not feel these symptoms as the nerves surronding the heart have already been damaged.
As time passes, plaque deposits narrow the arteries causing inefficient blood flow, which can also lead to the development of a type of Ischemic heart disease called angina. Angina Pectoris, or strangling, is chest pain caused by lack of oxygen to the heart due to poor blood supply. This puts the patient at an extremely high risk for heart attack and cardiac arrhythmia.
High blood pressure, genetics and diabetes are all risk factors for Ischemic Heart Disease. Simple things such as lifestyle changes including weight loss and quitting smoking, can alleviate or eliminate risks for this disease. However, it is very important to note that these changes, while beneficial for everyone will not cure someone who already has ischemic heart disease. In addition, anyone having already experienced a heart attack will probably experience another one within five years. Regular visits to a healthcare provider is a great step in monitoring this diseases progression, as well as alleviating or eliminating any additional future problems from occurring.
Ischemic Heart Disease can be prevented or its severity lessened with lifestyle changes and proper healthcare. Although the thought of changing your ways after twenty to thirty years of constant routine may seem an impossible task, the results and benefits of a longer life are well worth the effort.