Plaque is a fatty substance with a tendency to build up on the interior walls of the arteries. When plaque builds up on the coronary arteries that supply nutrient and oxygen-rich blood to the heart, your risk for a heart attack goes up. This condition is known as coronary artery disease. Treat it by taking an alternative approach.
Smoking Cessation
Smoking is already known for its negative effects on the lungs, but it can also increase your risk factors for coronary artery disease. Nicotine is the addictive chemical found in tobacco products, which causes blood vessels to constrict and put more stress on your heart. The carbon monoxide in cigarettes damages your blood vessels and it robs your blood of oxygen. If you smoke, quit. If you do not smoke, then do not start.
Stress Reduction
Stress can have an impact on the way you handle daily situations and it can increase your risk for coronary artery disease. Reduce your stress levels by engaging in some relaxation activities such as yoga, meditative breathing, muscle relaxation, Tai chi and massage.
Nutrition
What you eat has a lot to do with how clean your arteries are. Avoid foods high in fat, sodium and cholesterol. Have your diet consist mainly of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and small amounts of lean meats and fish. This can help keep your blood pressure down and your weight under control.
Exercise
Exercise can help improve your circulation, increase your mobility and reduce your chances of getting high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes, which are all coronary artery disease risk factors. After you have gotten your doctor's permission, exercise on most days of the week for 30 to 60 minutes. Examples include running, swimming, biking, stepping, walking and weight training.
Weight Maintenance
Having diabetes and heart disease are two risk factors for coronary artery disease. The Mayo Clinic takes a strong stand on the importance of weight loss to prevent this from happening. You are especially at risk if you are a man and your waist is larger than 40 inches or you are a woman and your waist is larger than 35 inches. Keep your weight under control to treat coronary artery disease.
Check-Ups
When you have coronary artery disease, make sure to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly to make sure they are staying in the healthy ranges.
