Heart Attack: Are You At Risk?

by: Ray Kelly

If you're male and you lead an inactive lifestyle you probably have at least 3 risk factors associated with heart disease. I know, I know, you feel fine but so do most people before they have a heart attack. Unfortunately, most people find out they have heart disease the day they are admitted in to hospital, and they are the lucky ones! Ladies, don't think this is just something for men to worry about (as it has been in the past). Women, as well as men, are more likely to die of heart disease than of any type of cancer. This is because of our modern lifestyle. We are working longer hours, so we eat fast food, and there's no time for exercise. To make matters worse, machines are taking the 'work' out of work. We are less active and it's killing us! So what are the risk factors for heart disease? Firstly, there are two types of risk factors: those that can be changed, and those that can't be changed. It's important to know that you only need to have 3 of these to be at risk. Each extra risk factor that you have increases your chance of having a heart attack substantially. Risk factors that can't be changed: Heredity: You are at greater risk if your parents, grandparents, brothers, or sisters, have heart disease. Gender: Men are at greater risk than women, though the risk for women increases after menopause. Age: As you increase in age, so do your chances of having a heart attack. Once you reach 40 you should have regular check-ups. Risk factors that can be changed: Smoking: A smoker is twice as likely than a non-smoker to have a heart attack. It not only places extra strain on the heart and lungs but also makes blood cholesterol stickier, making it easier to block arteries. High Blood Cholesterol: Cholesterol is produced naturally by the body and is essential to our health. The problem comes when we consume too much in our diet. High Blood Pressure: Just like with high cholesterol there are no early symptoms. The first most people learn they have this is when it's at a dangerous level. Physical Inactivity: If you are inactive, you are more likely to have a heart attack. Even a 10 minute walk each day can make all the difference. Obesity: If you are obese, you are placing your heart under a great deal of strain even at rest. I might be at risk, what should I do? If you think you could be at risk, the first thing you should do is visit your doctor. Secondly, you need to modify your lifestyle. Exercise for at least 10 minutes per day (30 minutes is better but anything is better than nothing!). You also need to eat foods that are low in fat. If you smoke you need to give up. Even if you don't have many risk factors it's a good idea to visit your doctor each year. Some risk factors can change within a short period of time and getting on to them early can make all the difference. About the author: Ray Kelly is an Exercise Scientist with 15 years experience in the health and fitness industry. Sign up for his free 7 Day Weight Loss Course at http://www.free-online-health.com

Make the Link between Diabetes and Heart Disease

by: ARA

(ARA) - Diabetes is a complex disease that can be difficult to understand and an even greater challenge to manage. The most life-threatening complications of diabetes are heart disease and stroke, which strike two out of three people with diabetes. Alarmingly, most people who have diabetes are unaware of their increased risk for heart disease and stroke. The good news is that people with diabetes can help reduce these risks by understanding and properly managing their disease. First, managing the ABCs of diabetes -- A1C (a blood test which provides a "big picture" of your average blood sugar), Blood pressure and Cholesterol -- will help reduce the risk for heart disease, stroke and other health problems. Beyond managing the ABCs, successful diabetes care also means understanding the disease itself and how it affects your body. Link for Life is an interactive, online tool filled with practical tips and valuable information about diabetes. "Type Two Lou," an animated character who hosts the program, takes visitors into a virtual classroom, Diabetes 101. Link for Life consists of four distinct "courses": 1. What is diabetes? 2. Diabetes and related health problems 3. The ABCs of diabetes 4. Medications Through colorful animation, Link for Life describes how diabetes affects your body and describes the key components of diabetes care. Special features include tips on meal planning, managing medicines, diabetes self-care, and getting the most from visits with your health care providers. Most importantly, the program shows that by increasing knowledge and taking charge of diabetes, people with diabetes can reduce their risk for heart disease, stroke and other long-term health problems. To log onto Link for Life, visit www.diabetes.org/makethelink and click on the Link for Life icon in the center of the screen. To learn more about the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, call (800) DIABETES (342-2383) Courtesy of ARA Content About the author: Courtesy of ARA Content

Add years to your life and save your heart for free

by: Nicholas Webb

If you were told that you can add years to your life, get your cholesterol levels back to normal and protect yourself from heart disease and atherosclerosis, all for free would you believe it? No need for the latest "fashionable" supplement or designer drug. No need to worry about unwanted drug side-effects and expense. You don't even have to be too concerned about your "bad" LDL cholesterol! Yes, you read correctly. It sounds too good to be true, but it isn't … Every day the evidence is piling up that links an increased risk of heart disease and stroke more strongly to low levels of the "good" HDL cholesterol rather than to high levels of the "bad" LDL. Studies have clearly shown that for every one-milligram rise in HDL, the risk for developing cardiovascular disease falls by 2 to 3 percent. There is a really simple, zero cost way of increasing your HDL by 5mg – that means a 15% reduction in the possibility of suffering from heart disease! For some time it has been known that HDL cholesterol is a so-called negative risk factor, meaning high levels zeros one of your other risk factor on your overall health profile. But this latest evidence takes the HDL issue one step further. The good news is that it is quite easy to increase levels of HDL and while doing so often levels of the so-called "bad" LDL decrease. So, you actually get twice your money's worth. In fact, the HDL actually cleans up the potentially harmful cholesterol from your arteries and sends it off to the liver where it is eliminated. But it doesn't end there, it also acts as an antioxidant that helps stop oxidation the bad cholesterol. Inflammation has also been receiving a lot of press coverage as being one of the culprits for heart disease, well guess what? HDL is also an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to repair what artery disease. It can also help keep blood clots from blocking arteries. So now all the buzz is on the good guy, which unlike LDL, that should be a low as possible; the higher your level of HDL cholesterol the better for your health. So now you can give your health a natural, zero cost boost and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. So, what should your HDL cholesterol levels be? For some time it has been known that people who live into their 90's without evidence of heart disease, typically have very high levels of HDL. You should do your best to get your HDL levels up to at least 60 milligrams; levels below 40 mg for men and 50 mg for women, according to the most important international health institutions, are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Come on over to our site now by selecting the link below and find out how to get YOUR levels of HDL up to standard. Don't worry we don't push supplements or pharmaceuticals; we just give you the tips you need.

Zeroing in on the Prevention of Heart Disease

by: Mike Spencer

Copyright 2005 Octocat Ltd More Americans succumb to the effects of heart disease than any other illness. Rated the number one killer, heart-related ailments are brought about by a variety of circumstances – some of which are preventable. The power that each individual has to ensure their own heart health is amazing, when you consider the factors that play a role in the variety of diseases that target the heart. The fact, then, that one out of every twenty people under the age of 40 suffers from some form of heart disease indicates that too many people aren't taking their heart health seriously. Factors such as family medical history, menopause, diabetes mellitus and age (for those over 65) are among the risks that are beyond the control of those who may suffer from heart related ailments. Those which are within the scope of control include stress, inactivity, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity and hypertension (high blood pressure). By exercising discipline and reducing or eliminating these factors, your chances of heart disease are dramatically decreased. In addition to the more traditional methods of reducing your risk for such ailments, laughter has also been found to fight heart disease and promote good heart health. Since laughter is a great way to release pent-up stress and tension, this simple act might very well be just what you need to reduce the level of stress that might, otherwise, have a negative impact on your health. According to recent medical information, it's believed that laughter can also help to fortify the lining of the blood vessels, as well as lowering your blood pressure and heart rate. Believe it or not, tea drinkers also have a decreased risk factor for heart disease. Due to its anti-oxidant properties, this is an ideal beverage – especially for those who don't eat the proper amount of fruits and vegetables, which also contain anti-oxidants. This type of beverage, in addition to the fruits and vegetables, are rich in natural anti-oxidants and are, therefore, better for your heart health and overall health profile than supplements. The bottom line is that, in order to have more control over the health of your heart, there are specific types of behaviors and activities that you can integrate into your daily lifestyle. These include eating a heart-healthy diet, controlling your weight, smoking cessation, controlling diabetes (if present), maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, controlling blood pressure levels, managing stress and participating in a daily exercise program – either by taking a class, enrolling in a gym or health spa, or designing an exercise plan that can be executed at home. A simple stroll around the neighborhood each day will help to control these potential risk factors. Medical professionals prescribe an hour of exercise each day – seven days a week. Of course, regular medical examinations are a necessary part of your health program, and those who are seeking to reduce their risk of heart disease should be screened for those types of ailments on a regular basis. Early detection can mean the difference between losing your life to heart disease and adding years to your life by taking the necessary measures to restore your heart to good health.

If I Suffer from Heart Disease

by: anonymous

I have heart disease – are there any erectile disfunction or male impotence treatments suitable for me? Heart disease can be associated with various factors that increase the likelihood of erectile disfunction or male impotence, and make treatment more difficult. Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), which is frequently involved in heart disease, can also affect the arteries that supply blood to the penis, thereby reducing the blood supply to it and leading to erectile disfunction. Smoking makes this worse, and quitting smoking should always be a priority. Many of the medicines used to treat high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers, thiazide diuretics and clonidine, can also contribute to erectile dysfunction. Some, but not all, statins and fibrates, used to treat high cholesterol levels, may also have a minor effect. Erectile dysfunction, or male impotence, therefore commonly exists in men with heart disease. However, all the treatments for erectile dysfunction and male impotence mentioned previously are stated to be unsuitable for men with conditions in which sexual activity is inadvisable, such as severe heart conditions. So what should these men do? Luckily, the warnings are not due to any effect of the drugs themselves, rather, that the activity of sex itself may put too much strain on the heart for men with severe heart disease. However, a recent report suggests that sexual activity is no more stressful to the heart when compared with a number of other natural daily activities, eg walking one mile on the level in 20 minutes. The risk of sexual activity in patients with heart disease is therefore minimal in properly assessed and advised patients. Patients with more severe heart disease may be referred to a cardiologist who can further evaluate their condition and determine if it is safe for them to resume sexual activity. These men may require treatment to stabilise their condition before treatment for ED (Erectile dysfunction) can be prescribed. So which erectile dysfunction or male impotence treatment is best for men with heart disease who have been assessed as safe to resume sex? Caverject, Viridal Duo and MUSE are effective in impotence due to many causes. However, if you are taking warfarin, (for preventing blood clots, for example if you have an artificial heart valve or an abnormal heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation) you may have an increased risk of bruising or bleeding from administering these medicines. HYPERLINK "http://www.my-medicare.info/cialis.php" Cialis and HYPERLINK "http://www.my-medicare.info/levitra.php " Levitra have been shown to be effective in erectile dysfunction due to various causes. However, they should not be taken by men with the heart conditions listed previously, and are not suitable for men with heart disease who are taking nitrates, eg for angina or heart failure. HYPERLINK "http://www.my-medicare.info/uprima.php" Uprima has been shown to be safe and effective in men with heart disease and high blood pressure and has the advantage of being safe to take with nitrates. When HYPERLINK "http://www.my-medicare.info/viagra.php" Viagra was first introduced there were reports of men with heart problems experiencing serious side effects, however safety data has since demonstrated that Viagra does not increase the risk of heart attack or death, and is safe for many men with heart disease. However, it is not suitable for men with heart disease who are taking nitrates, eg for angina or heart failure. About the author: The authour of this article wants to be kept anonymous, although he has worked closely to the www.my-medicare.comteam to creat the content and flow on their website.

Deadly heart disease strikes more women than men

by: NC

(NC)—Although heart disease is the number one killer of women in Canada, very few women actually consider the disease a major health concern. In fact, women and their doctors often miss the symptoms of heart disease, passing them off as the normal aches and pains of aging or indigestion or stress. The traditional belief that heart disease predominantly affects men is false. In 2000, 36 per cent of all female deaths in Canada were a result of heart disease compared to 34 per cent for males. As women age the risk of dying from heart disease increases dramatically. Researchers believe that after menopause women lose the heart protecting benefits of estrogen. The result is a steep increase in heart disease and death. Women need to educate themselves on the risks of this deadly disease and play an active role in their own heart health. It is not all bad news. Medical discoveries are paving the way to better preventive treatments. A recent landmark study investigated a new treatment for both men and women with coronary disease who are what cardiologists consider 'low-risk' but nevertheless are dying even though they feel quite well until a few days before they die. This important international study, EUROPA, provides compelling evidence that heart attacks and death can be significantly reduced in patients with coronary artery disease when the common and well studied ACE Inhibitor perindopril (Coversyl®) is added to their daily treatment regimen. Considering that half of all heart disease deaths in women are from coronary artery disease, this is both a milestone in cardiology and a major step forward for women. For more information, talk to your doctor or visit www.europa-trial.org. - News Canada About the author: News Canada

Free Program about Heart Health

by: ARA

(ARA) - When it comes to heart disease risk factors -- like high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure -- one plus one can equal three, five or even nine times higher risk! Adding risk factors can actually multiply your risk. You can't change some risk factors, like your age or family history. But you can change others, like high cholesterol. That's good news. Here's more good news: The American Heart Association offers a free program called The Cholesterol Low Down that can help you learn about your risk for heart disease. The program urges you to do three things to help protect your heart: 1) Visit your doctor. Even if you feel healthy, see your doctor regularly. Make an appointment to talk about heart disease risk. 2) Know your cholesterol numbers. High cholesterol is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease. If you are over 20 years old, you need to know your cholesterol numbers. 3) Know your other risk factors for heart disease. Many things can put you at risk for heart disease. Your risk is much higher when you have more than one risk factor. High cholesterol is one risk factor you should know; others are listed below. Make it a priority to take control of the ones you can change. * Cigarette smoking * Family history of heart disease * Diet high in fatty foods (like cheese and creams) * Age * High blood pressure * Diabetes * Excess weight * High triglycerides * Too much alcohol (more than one drink each day for women, and more than two drinks each day for men) Actress Valerie Harper ("Rhoda") recently learned that she has high cholesterol, which, along with a family history of heart disease, increases her risk. Harper is working with her doctor to lower her cholesterol through diet, exercise and medication. Join The Cholesterol Low Down TODAY Call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (1-800-242-8721) or visit americanheart.org/cld. As a member, you'll get: * A checklist of questions to ask your doctor * An online risk calculator to determine your 10-year risk for heart disease * A brochure and newsletters to answer your questions about cholesterol and heart disease * A health book with tips for heart-smart living * A cookbook of heart-healthy recipes Courtesy of ARA Content About the author: Courtesy of ARA Content

Prevent Heart Disease

by: Mike Spencer

You should always keep in mind that whatever actions you do today can either help to prevent, delay or minimize the effect of heart disease or worsen it. The key is to control risk factors. Granted that you cannot control every risk factor for heart disease such as family history but you can definitely do something about your behavior. Age and gender also influence your risk of heart disease.

Major Risk Factors of Heart Disease

Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is a type of a lipid, a soft, fatlike substance that serves as a source of fuel. Excessive cholesterol can cause buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. Accumulation of plaque in arteries can block blood flow and lead to a heart attack. LDL cholesterol, the so-called "bad" cholesterol, is transported to sites throughout the body, where it's used to repair cell membranes or to make hormones. LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the walls of your arteries. HDL cholesterol, the so-called "good" cholesterol, transports cholesterol to the liver, where it's altered and removed from the body.

Blood Pressure

Normal blood pressure level is defined as less than 130 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) for systolic blood pressure and less than 85 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure. The higher the blood pressure, the more likely it is to take a toll on the heart and on the brain. Blood pressure should be checked whether or not your levels are high. For normal, check once every two years. For high-normal, check once a year. If extremely high, you should get immediate care. Then get multiple measurements to know if a high level is sustained over time.

Diabetes

Another risk factor for heart disease is diabetes, a chronic disease of insulin deficiency or resistance. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type, is associated with obesity and may be prevented by maintaining ideal body weight through exercise and balanced nutrition.

Tips For Controlling Risk of Heart Disease

Stop Smoking

The effect of smoking on your lungs can cause almost every other medical condition.

Get Active

Routine physical activity is highly recommended and helpful in controlling obesity. Try to perform 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. Fast walking is one of the best way to prevent heart disease. If you can lose even a small amount of weight, five pounds for example, it may have a positive effect on lipid levels and blood pressure preventing heart disease.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Limit daily alcohol intake to three ounces or fewer to prevent heart disease. People who drink large amounts of alcohol (six to eight ounces a day) tend to have higher blood pressure.

Watch What You Eat

Eat five helpings of fruits and vegetables daily to prevent heart disease.

Maintain adequate dietary potassium, calcium and magnesium intake.

Reduce saturated fats and cholesterol to stay away from heart disease.

Copyright 2005 Mike Spencer