WHAT IS CORONARY HEART DISEASE?: Coronary heart disease (CHD) happens when arteries taking blood to the heart become narrow or blocked. This means the heart does not get enough blood. This damages the heart.
CHD can cause pain, called angina. This pain is often felt in the chest. Pain may also be felt in the left arm and shoulder. Sometimes there is no pain at all.
When the blood supply is cut off all the way, a heart attack occurs.
The good news is that you can reduce your risk of CHD, even after a heart attack.
WHAT CAUSES CORONARY HEART DISEASE?: The blood carries cholesterol and fat. If there is too much, it can build up inside the arteries. This slows down the flow of blood to the heart.
CHD can also be caused by:
- High blood pressure
- Too little exercise
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Poor diet
- Diabetes
- Age over 55
- A family history of CHD
If any of these are true of you, you may be at risk for CHD. But you can lower that risk. Medical care and changes in your day-to-day habits can help.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE CHD?: Chest pains may cause you to see your doctor. Feeling out of breath is also an early sign. But sometimes, there are no signs before a heart attack.
If you have risk factors for CHD, see your doctor for a check-up.
There are tests that can be done to see if you have CHD.
WHAT CAN I DO FOR CORONARY HEART DISEASE?: CHD will not be the same for each person. Ways it can be treated are: o Changes in diet o More exercise o Medicine
In some cases, surgery may be needed. Talk with your doctor.
The best way to prevent illness and death from CHD is to lower your risk now.
MY RISK FACTORS I CAN CHANGE ARE:
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TO LOWER MY RISK, I CAN:
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