Cardiovascular disease is a general term for conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels, for example, coronary heart disease and cerebral stroke. The disease is typically caused by fatty deposits in the coronary or cerebral arteries that narrow the blood vessels, reduce their elasticity, and obstruct or reduce the flow of blood to the organs thus impairing their function. When there is a symptom of the condition, it means that the condition has been building up for a period of time. The lack of prompt medical attention could have serious consequences and can even lead to death.
Having too much bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol or non- HDL cholesterol) is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease. An international study on cholesterol control found that most people with cardiovascular disease have excessive bad cholesterol. To find out your cholesterol levels, you can schedule a risk assessment with your doctor.
The desired level of bad cholesterol vary for people in different risk groups. High-risk groups include those who don’t exercise regularly, or have smoking and drinking habits, chronic kidney disease, obesity, the three hypers (hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia), or a family history of heart disease.
Good lifestyle habits help to improve bad cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Healthy living includes the following five areas:
- Maintain a healthy diet of at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day;
- Exercise regularly, ideally for 30 minutes, five times a week;
- Quit smoking;
- Avoid drinking alcohol; and
- Maintain a moderate weight and a waist circumference of not more than 90cm for men and 80cm for women.
Coronary heart disease and cerebral stroke are common and can strike at any age. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you are advised to schedule regular medical checkups with your doctor to make sure your cholesterol levels remain normal and to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Information provided by Quality HealthCare.
The articles are for general information only and are not medical opinions nor should the contents be used to replace the need for personal consultation with a qualified health professional on the reader’s medical condition.