Monday 25 January 2016

CHD ( Coronary Heart Diseases)

Coronary Heart Disease


Ana Djurica
Biology HL
25.01.2016.
Mr. Youell

What is CHD?
  • Coronary heart disease is a disease caused when a waxy substance called plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, these arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. Plaque building up in arteries is called atherosclerosis, it occurs over many years.

  • Atheroclerosis

Figure A shows the location of the heart in the body. Figure B shows a normal coronary artery with normal blood flow. The inset image shows a cross-section of a normal coronary artery. Figure C shows a coronary artery narrowed by plaque. The buildup of plaque limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood through the artery. The inset image shows a cross-section of the plaque-narrowed artery. 

What are the risk factors?

  • Risk factors include:  high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, high blood lipids, high blood cholesterol, family history poor diet, and excessive alcohol, among others. Other risk factors include depression.

What are the signs and symptoms? 


  • The most common symptom of CHD is angina. Angina is often referred to as chest pain (chest discomfort, pressure, aching, burning). 

  • Shortness of breath occurs when heart can't pump enough blood to satisfy the body. 

  • Heart attack may be caused by a completely blocked coronary artery. 

How does a poor diet cause CHD?

  • Eating well is also a challenge, when you're leading a fast lifestyle. Knowing what impact your diet has on your heart will help you improve your chances of avoiding potential complications: 
  • FATS: Eat foods with unsaturated fats, reduce the amount of butter and shortening in your diet and replacing them with healthier oils such as olive or canola. Limiting your saturated fat intake to less than 7g daily and eating a maximum of 1g of trans fat a day are also recommended.
  • SALT AND SODIUM: Too much salt increases blood pressure which is one of the risk factors. The Institute of Medicine recommends keeping sodium intake under 2,300 milligrams daily, which is approximately the same as 1 teaspoon of table salt, but people with heart problems should reduce their intake to 1,500 milligrams. In addition to salt, sodium-filled foods and condiments such as mustard, soy sauce and canned foods are also dangerous. 

Is there anything you can do to prevent CHD?

  • Yes! There are numerous way you can do this! 
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Which means-low fat and high fiber. Lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grain. And as little junk food as possible. 
  • Be more physically active and keep a healthy weight.
  • If you are a smoker, try quitting or at least reducing. 
  • Reduce your alcohol consumption!
  • Keep your blood-pressure under control. 

Sources:

  • Wikipedia 
  • NHC Choices

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