Heart Disease Risk Factors

Coronary heart disease affects the heart and the entire circulatory system. It can lead to a blocked artery, which starves the heart of oxygen and can trigger a heart attack, which can be fatal without the intervention of a cardiovascular surgeon.

High cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and smoking are just a few factors that contribute to heart disease. A cardiologist can check for known risk factors, including ones you can control to reduce your risk. However, your age and family history are factors you cannot control.

How Your Circulatory System Works

The heart pumps blood through all the arteries and veins in your body to supply your organs with oxygen. Veins carry blood back to the heart and include pulmonary, systemic, superficial, and deep veins. Arteries carry blood from the heart to the body. There are elastic and muscular arteries, as well as smaller arterioles that lead to capillaries.

All veins and arteries must be clear of obstructions for your heart and organs to receive the right amount of blood and oxygen.

Is It Possible to Lower Your Risk of Needing  Cardiac Surgery?

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the CDC. A heart specialist can check for risk factors and warning signs, but you also can lower your risk by eating low-fat foods, exercising, and reducing your stress level.

Learn more about heart disease below or make an appointment with a Crystal Run Healthcare cardiologist or interventional cardiologist.