Conditions that make your heart a ticking time bomb

Heart diseases have become extremely common among people, including the younger population. Blame it on the pandemic or the unhealthy lifestyle habits we have all accustomed ourselves to, but it is a reality we must all face and try to overcome. That being said, one thing we must bear in our minds is that knowing and assessing our risk factors and doing something about it is the best way to prevent all forms of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Your heart is one of the most important organs in your body, that helps pump blood and carries oxygen throughout your system. At the same time, it is also one of the most vulnerable and prone to damage organs. Many health conditions can increase your risk of heart damage and disease. Some of them can be silent, meaning there'll be no symptoms to recognize it, which is why regular heart screening is advised.

Also read: Indian cancer doctors talk about the miracle drug ‘Dostarlimab’ trial that completely removed cancer: Do we have a cancer cure in sight?

There are several sneaky health conditions that can throw you off guard, however, high blood pressure or hypertension is one of the most dangerous among them all. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, nearly 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years have hypertension.

High blood pressure, as the name itself suggests, refers to great force or pressure of the blood against the artery walls, which leads to heart diseases such as heart attack, heart failure, a stroke and more. It is often considered to be a silent killer because it arises with no particular symptom and only after much of the damage is caused is when people realise the severity of the condition.

Also read: High cholesterol: Cramps in these five areas of the body can signal high cholesterol

A person diagnosed with high cholesterol has fatty deposits in their blood vessels, which makes it difficult for sufficient blood to flow through the arteries. These deposits can also break down suddenly, forming clots, leading to a heart attack or a stroke.

While cholesterol is a waxy substance necessary for the body to build healthy cells, too much of it can lead to plaque buildup also known as atherosclerosis.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart." Those with diabetes are also more likely to have other conditions including high blood pressure, too much LDL (bad) cholesterol and high triglycerides that raise the risk for heart disease, as per the heath agency.

Cleveland Clinic reports obesity and overweight are associated with several factors that raise one's risk for cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke.

Apart from raised blood pressure, glucose, and lipids, the WHO reports suggest overweight and obesity also contribute to a person's risk of developing CVD.

Experts and leading doctors have continued to stress on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. Eating healthy, limiting oily, processed and sugary foods, indulging in regular physical activity and steering clear of stress are some of the ways you can improve your cardiovascular health.

While certain conditions are genetic, smoking and drinking are lifestyle habits that can be altered for your own good health and safety.