The coronary arteries are the primary blood supply to the heart muscle itself. Coronary heart disease is characterized by the fatty buildup of plaque within these arteries, and the resulting blockage causes a decrease or stoppage of blood flow directly to the heart. When the heart muscle does not have sufficient blood flow, muscle metabolism cannot continue, and a heart attack results. The American Heart Association has determined that there are several established risk factors that, when present, place an individual at high risk of developing coronary artery disease. According to Healthcentral.com, 25 percent of all Americans have one or more of these risk factors.
Obesity
Anyone whose body mass index (BMI) is greater than 30 is considered obese. Obese individuals have much more body mass and many more miles of blood vessels that cause the heart to work much harder. According to the American Heart Association, losing as little as 10 pounds can greatly decrease the risk of developing coronary heart disease. Many obese individuals have other risk factors identified by the American Heart Association, such as high cholesterol, high triglycerides, diabetes and inactive lifestyle.
Smoking
Smoking tobacco is one of the greatest risk factors for developing coronary artery disease. According to the American Heart Association, smokers have at least double the chance of developing heart disease compared to nonsmokers. Chemicals found in tobacco smoke, such as nicotine, cause damage to the walls of the coronary arteries, which can lead to increased clotting. These areas of damage also allow atherosclerosis to occur, which is the fatty buildup within the walls of the artery. When smoking is combined with other risk factors, such as obesity and high blood pressure, the risk is magnified.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure causes the heart to work harder to pump sufficient amounts of blood and oxygen to the tissues. According to Mayo Clinic, the increased pressure also causes damage to the walls of arteries, leading to the same atherosclerosis process that occurs with smoking tobacco. Damaged arteries allow the collection of clotting factors and plaque buildup. This can lead to decreased flexibility of the arteries, which increases blood pressure even further. Controlling and managing blood pressure, in conjunction with your doctor, can help decrease your risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Activity Level
Whether or not you lead an active lifestyle is a great indicator of your likelihood of developing coronary artery disease. The American Heart Association reports that those who are inactive have a greater risk and will usually develop other risk factors such as diabetes, high triglycerides, and obesity. Exercise does not have to be strenuous to be of any benefit. Even mild to moderate but consistent exercise can lower your risk and help your heart work more efficiently.
