Coronary Artery Disease Another Silent Killer Disease

About one-quarter of death in Singapore each year is due to Coronary Artery Disease [CAD]. Another name for it is Ischaemic Heart Disease [IHD].

It is the 2nd most common cause of death in Singapore.

The heart is mainly made up of muscle which pumps blood around the body, bring oxygen and nutrients to every part of our body.

This muscle of the heart themselves needs oxygen and nutrients to keep on working. The blood vessels that carry the blood to the heart muscle are called Coronary Arteries. Blockage of the coronary arteries is known as Coronary Artery Disease [CAD].

With decreased blood supply, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and in medical terminology, this is known as Ischaemia. Hence another name for this condition is called Ischaemic Heart Disease.

Risk factors are conditions that increase your risk for CAD. Some risk factors can be changed and others cannot.

In general, the more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing heart disease.

These are the Risk Factors you cannot control:-

* age [45 years or older for men; 55 years or older for women]
* family history of early heart disease [father or brother
affected before age 55; mother or sister affected before age 65]

Known Risk Factors That You Can Do Something About It :-

+ high blood cholesterol [raised total cholesterol and raised LDL 'bad' cholesterol]
+ low HDL [good] cholesterol]
+ smoking
+ high blood pressure
+ diabetes
+ obesity/overweight
+ sedentary life-style or physical inactivity

What Are The Complications and Risks

A heart attack is a very serious condition as up to one-third of patients may die.

As permanent damage of the heart muscle occurs after a heart attack, the heart pump is weakened and may result in heart failure.

A person who had a heart attack may also suffer abnormal heart rhythm and recurrent chest pain. He or she is also at an increased risk or a repeat heart attack, particularly over the next one year.

Conclusion

The good news about CAD is that heart attack can be prevented.

Learn about healthy lifestyle and apply it to your life, no matter what age you are now. Whatever it is, get yourself financially protected.

So don't get stressed up, stay healthy, watch your diet and make a point to have regular exercises.