Coronary heart disease, also known as ischaemic heart disease is the commonest form of heart disease and the single most important cause of premature death in the developed world.
It is a disease of the coronary arteries which are the blood vessels responsible for supplying blood and oxygen to the tissues of the heart. It manifests with symptoms of chest pain and palpitations. There could be swelling of the legs due to heart failure and in some cases it may lead to sudden death.
But are there things we could do to prevent developing coronary heart disease. Certainly yes! Here are some things you could do to insure yourself against the disease.
- Avoid tobacco smoking – tobacco is the most important avoidable cause of coronary heart disease
- Reduce your cholesterol intake – cholesterol is found in foods like eggs, butter and certain oils. High levels in the blood predispose to the disease
- Increase your physical activity – a sedentary (inactive) lifestyle predisposes to coronary artery disease. Regular exercise is prescribed
- Stay away from heavy drinking – heavy drinking is associated with hypertension and other cardiac events which may lead to the development of coronary artery disease
Taking these four precautions will go a long way in helping you prevent coronary heart disease.
I love you and God bless you.
– Dr. deji oyembamiji