Also known as cardiac or myocardial ischemia, ischemia occurs when obstructions in blood vessels prevent the proper flow of blood throughout the body. Atherosclerosis (i.e., plaque accumulation within the arteries) is a common cause of ischemia, but having diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease can also increase one’s risk.
In addition to working with your doctor, making healthy lifestyle choices can prevent more serious health effects. In the same token, people with ischemia must make it a point to avoid the following
Smoking carries numerous health risks, including significantly increasing a person’s chance of developing cancer. Smoking is also extremely bad for the heart, especially for people with cardiac ischemia. The chemicals in cigarette smoke contribute to atherosclerosis, while also raising blood pressure. If you currently smoke, talk with your doctor about cessation methods to help you kick the habit.
Saturated fat, sodium, and foods that can raise cholesterol levels all negatively impact heart health. On the other hand, certain foods are associated with a heart healthy diet, including:
These foods are replete with essential vitamins and nutrients, which are necessary to support overall good health. However, these wholesome foods can also help maintain heart health and prevent worsening effects associated with ischemia.
Chronic stress is a major contributor to heart disease. Along with increasing inflammation and contributing to clogged arteries, long-term stress can also raise one’s blood pressure and increase heart rate. Finding an outlet for your stress, such as a relaxing hobby, can help mitigate these negative health effects. Reducing the amount of stress you experience each day is also important, which can be achieved through therapy and counselling.
Physical activity can improve the flow of blood to the heart, so people with ischemia are encouraged to find a workout regimen that’s suited to their state of health. A sedentary lifestyle can cause a person to gain weight, which in turn will worsen existing heart disease. In general, a person should strive for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week to maintain health.