Do I Have A Risk For Coronary Artery Disease?

Are you a man over 45 or a woman over 55?

Do you have a family history of heart diseases?

Are you a smoker, exposed to secondhand smoke for a long time (you have a smoker in your family) or did you smoke?

Do you have high blood pressure?

Do you know if you have a high level of blood cholesterol (a high level of LDL cholesterol - the "bad" cholesterol or a low HDL-cholesterol - the "good" cholesterol) or raised triglycerides?

Do you have diagnosis of diabetes?

Are you overweight (your BMI (body mass index) is over 25)?

Do you have a sedentary lifestyle, with no time for regular exercise?

Do you find yourself in a high stress environment?

Do you eat an unhealthy diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, salt and sugar (fried, fatty food, snacks, deserts and baked goods)?

Do you have a diagnosis of sleep apnea, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or some other inflammatory rheumatologic condition?

Do you drink alcohol daily (more than two drinks if you are a man and more than one drink if you are a woman) or regularly drink excessive amounts of alcohol?

If you are a woman, do you have a history of preeclampsia during pregnancy (high blood pressure during pregnancy)?

Based on your answers you have a low risk for coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a medical condition characterized by narrowing of the coronary arteries due to plaque accumulation in the artery wall. These changes in your arteries lead to a poor blood supply to your heart, especially when it beat hard, such as during exercise. Leading a healthy lifestyle can help you prevent coronary artery disease and keep your arteries strong and plaque-free. It is never too early to start a heart-healthy lifestyle: eat a low-fat, low-salt diet, maintain a healthy weight, stay physically active and reduce and manage stress.

Based on your answers you have a moderate risk for coronary artery disease or CAD. CAD is the most common type of heart disease caused by a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries wall, resulting in narrowed arteries and low blood flow into your heart. Coronary artery disease may lead to serious complications such as a heart attack and stroke. Living a healthy lifestyle is a crucial part of avoiding CAD. Please, talk to your doctor about some lifestyle changes that will help you to lower your risk for CAD. Also you need to manage your other health problems and keep them under control.

Based on your answers you have a high risk for coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a serious health condition that can result in a heart attack or a stroke. It means that your coronary arteries are clogged and cannot supply the heart with blood and nutrients. The first step in preventing CAD is to know your risk factors. You should talk to your doctor about them and monitor their effects on your overall health. Lifestyle changes are an important part of the prevention plan for CAD that includes good nutrition, smoking cessation, weight management, getting plenty of exercises, and a stress management plan.