Health Conditions and Habits that Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease

It has been said that a glass of wine a day keeps the heart healthy, but what kinds of things do not help the heart? Keep reading to find out what health conditions and habits are hurting you more than helping.

1.  High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk for heart disease. It occurs when the pressure of the blood in your arteries and other blood vessels is too high. High blood pressure can affect not only the heart but the brain, liver, and kidney. 

2. Unhealthy Blood Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is made by the liver and found in certain foods. Although the liver makes enough for our bodies to survive, we often eat foods with more than our body can handle. High blood cholesterol levels cause excess cholesterol to build upon the walls of the arteries, including those in the heart.

3.  Diabetes

Our bodies naturally make insulin, which helps shuttle sugar into the cells of the body. Diabetes causes sugar to build up in the blood. The risk of heart disease goes up in adults with diabetes more than those without. It is always best to talk to your doctor about how to control your diabetes and your heart.

4. Obesity

Healthy dieting and exercise can help add years to your life and keep those extra pounds off. On the other hand, obesity is a serious issue that affects many. Obesity is excess body fat and is linked to higher “bad” cholesterol. If you are worried about your weight or if any medication you are on affects your weight, talk to your doctor. The two of you can find a plan that works best for your body.

Lifestyles

Your lifestyle can increase your risk for heart disease in the following ways:

·        Eating a diet high in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol

·        Not getting enough physical activity

·        Drinking too much alcohol

·        Tobacco use

Limiting fast food, how much you smoke, and how many drinks you have a day can make a huge difference. In 2017, 219 out of every 100,000 people died from cardiovascular disease. On average, someone dies from cardiovascular disease every 37 seconds. What change can you make to avoid being in this number?

Family History

Family medical history can always affect how your body works. These factors can play a huge role in different diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and other related conditions. If heart disease runs in the family, it is not uncommon for you to have it or to have early symptoms of it. Keeping your body in mind and giving it healthy food, water, and plenty of exercises can reduce these risks.

Learn More About Health Conditions and Heart Disease

At BASS Medical Group, we know how important your heart is. We want to give you a chance to breathe easier, smile wider, and feel your heartbeat a little longer. Our talented professionals can help you address heart disease concerns and work through a plan that is right for you. Get in touch with us today at (925)350-4044 to find out how we can assist you.