Are you aware that heart diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming over 17.9 million lives annually? It's a staggering statistic, and what's even more alarming is that many people remain unaware of the risks and consequences of heart diseases. It's time to break the silence and shed light on this critical health issue. Heart diseases are often referred to as the "silent killer" because they can strike without warning, leaving devastation in their wake. But the good news is that heart diseases are preventable, and with the right knowledge and strategies, you can reduce your risk and live a heart-healthy life. This blog has all the information about heart diseases and how they can be prevented naturally.

Heart Diseases: Types, Causes & Risk Factors

Heart disease has many types and specific to each type there are certain symptoms that persist. Following are the types of heart diseases:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most common type, CAD occurs when the coronary arteries narrow, reducing blood flow to the heart.This results in weakening of heart and heart failure as well. The primary symptom of CAD is Chest pain or discomfort, medically called Angina.
• Heart Failure (HF): When the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, Heart Failure occurs. Its symptoms include fatigue, weakness, reduced ability to exercise and wheezing.
• Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure. The symptoms include palpitations, pounding in the chest along with dizziness and fainting.
• Heart Valve Disease: Damaged or diseased heart valves can disrupt blood flow and lead to complications. Symptoms are low or high blood pressure and shortness of breath.
• Cardiomyopathy: Diseases that affect the heart muscle, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It has very general symptoms and that is swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, abdomen and veins in the neck.

Causes & Risk Factors Of Heart Disease

Following are the causes and risk factors for developing heart diseases:

• High Blood Pressure: The silent killer's silent killer.
• High Cholesterol: The sneakiest of them all.
• Smoking: A deadly habit that's hard to break.
• Obesity: A growing concern for heart health.
• Diabetes: A sweet threat to your heart.
• Family History: Genetics can play a role.
• Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor.
• Poor Diet: A diet high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats.

Natural Strategies: Prevent Heart Diseases with Some Simple Changes

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.First and foremost is the diet which needs to be corrected.
• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Exercise makes your heart muscles strong as well.
• Quit Smoking: Nicotine intake results in recurrent widening and narrowing of blood vessels, resulting in loss of elasticity.
• Manage Stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga. Stress results in releasing of cortisol (stress hormones), whose excess in the body have an impact on heart functioning as well.
• Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regular check-ups are important as these two generally have no symptoms. But when the situation becomes extreme there may not be enough time to do anything.
• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours per night as sleep is important for your health.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive drinking can increase blood pressure and cardiovascular risk.
• Consuming Herbal Supplements: There are many heart friendly herbal supplements in the market that can be taken regularly after consulting with anAyurvedic Doctor. They can be of great help for keeping heart problems, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels at bay. Combination of herbs like Arjun, Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Shankhpushpi etc. can be of great help.

Conclusion

Heart diseases are a silent killer, but with awareness and proactive measures, you can reduce your risk. By understanding the types, causes, symptoms and prevention strategies you can take control of your heart health. Remember, a healthy heart is a happy heart. Yes, lifestyle has a great importance in maintaining your heart health and also keeps your mind and body healthy. Let's conquer the silent killer and live a heart-healthy life.