The heart is one of the vital organs whose function is to distribute oxygen-filled blood throughout the body, carry nutrients, and transport waste substances. However, as more and more people pay less attention to a healthy lifestyle, heart health begins to suffer which can trigger coronary heart disease.
How does coronary heart disease occur?
Coronary heart disease occurs due to blockage/narrowing of the blood vessels that carry blood/oxygen to the heart muscle. The process is called atherosclerosis where fat (LDL) gets into the middle layer of the blood vessel walls.
Symptoms of coronary heart disease
Most often is chest pain or tightness. In the initial phase it appears during activities, for example exercising where the heart muscle needs more nutrition and oxygen, but because there is a narrowing of the blood vessels, the heart experiences a lack of oxygen and nutrients which causes symptoms of chest pain.
What factors can increase the risk of coronary heart disease?
Factors that cannot be modified are age, gender (men are more at risk than women), and a family history of coronary heart disease/stroke, especially at a young age. Factors that can be changed are hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, obesity, lack of activity, stress, and smoking.
Can coronary heart disease be prevented?
Of course. Control modifiable risk factors and screen for early detection. For those under 40, check blood pressure once a year. Check cholesterol and blood sugar levels every 3-4 years. For those aged 40 years and over, health screening is recommended routinely once a year. If during the examination it is known that there is a risk of coronary heart disease, it is necessary to carry out therapy, both with a healthy lifestyle and medication.
Starting from now, start maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, stay away from stress, and love your heart for a better quality of life.
Article written by dr. Rachmat Hamonangan, Sp.PD-KKV, FINASIM, FACP, FICA (Consultant Cardiovascular Internal Medicine Specialist at EMC Pekayon Hospital).