Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors - Insights From Bowral Doctors

By Author: Ono Alex-Ohunyon
Total Articles: 10
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Did you know? Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in Australia. According to Heart Foundation, “More than 620,000 Australians are living with heart disease, and each year, approximately 54,000 Australians suffer a heart attack.”

It is rightly said, “Prevention is better than cure.” Although heart disease is a primary cause of death, it is not inevitable. While you can’t change some risk factors associated with family history, there are plenty of ways to reduce the risk of heart disease. Yes, knowledge is power. You need to understand the risk factors for heart disease. The sooner you identify and manage risk factors, the better are the chances of leading a healthy life.

What are the risk factors for heart disease?

There are several risk factors for cardiovascular disease. While some are controllable, others are not. The risk factors that cannot ...
... be controlled include:

- Family history of heart disease

- Older age

- Male gender

- Heredity including race

You may be born with certain risk factors that cannot be changed. It is good to consult a doctor in Bowral at least once in a year for ruling out possible health conditions, especially if you are above 40.

Major risk factors that can be modified and controlled

Smoking

Smoking can wreak havoc on your health. The risk that smokers will develop heart disease is much higher than that for non-smokers. Smoking is a significant risk factor for sudden cardiac arrest death in patients with coronary heart disease. Besides, exposure to cigarette smoke increases the risk of heart disease even for non-smokers. If you smoke, please quit. If you can’t, the Bowral doctors can help you quit smoking and lead a healthy heart life.

High cholesterol levels

The risk of heart disease increases when your total amount of cholesterol increases. The total cholesterol level should be less than 200mg/dl. Following a diet that is low in cholesterol and saturated fats and high in carbohydrates and good fats can help manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk for heart disease.

High blood pressure

High BP is also a contributing factor to heart disease, including stroke, heart failure, and heart attack. High BP is often symptomless. Yes, it doesn’t exhibit any signs by the time you realise it could have been significantly affected your health. However, it can be easily diagnosed by a GP in Bowral using a routine test.

Obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for coronary heart disease. Being overweight is not only bad for your heart but also increases the risk of other health complications. Physical activity can help reduce the risk of heart disease, control blood cholesterol, and diabetes.

Diabetes

Diabetes also increases the risk of heart disease, especially if blood sugar is not controlled. If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to manage it. Simple lifestyle changes can make a difference.

The author is one of the best Bowral doctors who take holistic approach to improve and maintain patient’s health. Visit https://www.drono.com.au/ for more details.

I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, will take the time to carefully listen to your concerns, answer your questions honestly and ensure that you are comfortable with all treatment plans we decide to go with. My patients would describe me as being professional, thorough, methodical and thoughtful in my approach to health care.