As one of the most common cardiovascular problems today, coronary artery disease is an important topic of discussion between doctors and their patients. Sometimes, this condition is referred to as atherosclerosis. These terms are used to describe plaque buildup in the blood vessels that lead to the heart. The accumulation of plaque narrows the arteries, subsequently impeding the flow of oxygen and nutrients to support heart health. Ultimately, heart function decreases due to this. And, if a complete blockage of an artery occurs, a heart attack will follow.
Depending on age and risk factors, physicians tend to recommend certain lab work to assess heart health. It is also beneficial to understand that heart conditions are not solely about this organ; other systems are also involved, which can lead to unforeseen risks or symptoms.
To the body, stress is stress. It doesn’t matter if danger is real, such as experiencing a car accident, or if it is imagined, such as suffering from chronic anxiety about any particular issue. There is a physiological response to stress that leads to an increase in cortisol. Stress also causes arteries to constrict and heart rate to increase. When stress is the norm, there is a very real threat to cholesterol and blood pressure, which may promote blood clots in the arteries that lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Insulin is a chemical that facilitates the movement of glucose into the cells of the body. Chronically high insulin levels set off a domino effect that can ultimately cause inflammation in the arteries. This inflammation is one of the biomarkers of coronary artery disease.
One of the places where micro-organisms can thrive is in the mouth. The bacteria that cause gum disease are a common source of introduction of infection and inflammation in other parts of the body, including the arteries to the heart.
Ultimately, each of us is responsible for our health and wellness. The more that you know about warning signs of heart conditions, and risk factors in your life, the better you can advocate for the healthcare you need.
Contact Premier Cardiology Consultants to learn more about diagnostic testing for coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
