Brilio.net - Angina pectoris is a health condition that occurs when the blood vessels of the heart (coronary) experience narrowing. In fact, these blood vessels of the heart function to flow blood rich in oxygen to the heart muscle, so that it can pump blood properly.
If the blood vessels of the heart narrow, then the oxygen supply to the heart muscle is blocked, which makes the heart unable to pump blood optimally. Angina pectoris can occur at any time, even when resting.
When experiencing angina pectoris, chest pain will feel like being crushed or pressed. In addition, other symptoms appear such as cold sweats, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and shortness of breath. Although it seems trivial, if angina pectoris is left untreated, it can cause complications such as a heart attack.
Well, one of the triggers for angina involves habits or lifestyles that are often done. So what are the lifestyles that trigger angina ? Check out the full review, adapted by brilio.net from various sources on Thursday (8/15).
1. Smoking.
photo: freepik.com
Smoking is one of the main habits that can trigger angina. Nicotine and other harmful substances in cigarettes can cause narrowing of blood vessels and can increase blood pressure, which plays a role in reducing blood flow to the heart.
In addition, smoking can cause plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis), which blocks blood flow and even increases the risk of angina and heart attacks. Research conducted by the Journal of the American Heart Association, shows that smokers have a two to four times higher risk of developing coronary heart disease compared to non-smokers.
2. A diet high in fat and cholesterol.
Eating foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, such as fatty meats, fast food, and processed foods, can trigger plaque buildup in the arteries. This plaque can narrow the arteries and block blood flow to the heart, which ultimately triggers angina.
An unhealthy diet can also lead to increased levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood, which are major risk factors for coronary heart disease and angina.
3. Lack of physical activity.
Lack of physical activity or a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of angina. Physical inactivity contributes to weight gain, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.
Without enough physical activity, the heart does not get the exercise it needs to stay healthy. On the other hand, regular physical activity can help improve blood circulation, reduce stress on the heart, and improve blood lipid profiles.
A study published in Circulation shows that people who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing heart disease, compared to those who rarely exercise.
4. Excessive stress.
Chronic or prolonged stress can also trigger angina. Stress causes the body to release hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol which can increase heart rate and blood pressure. If it occurs in the long term, stress can cause chronic inflammation that contributes to the development of atherosclerosis.
In addition, stress is often associated with other unhealthy habits, such as smoking, overeating, and lack of sleep, all of which can increase the risk of heart disease. Quoting from the European Heart Journal page shows that high psychosocial stress is associated with an increased risk of angina and coronary heart disease.
5. Ignoring the symptoms of heart disease.
photo: freepik.com
Many people ignore or fail to recognize early symptoms of heart disease, such as mild chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue. Ignoring these symptoms and not seeking medical help can cause the condition to worsen and even increase the risk of angina pectoris. Angina pectoris could be an early sign that you are experiencing problems with your coronary arteries that can lead to a heart attack.
6. Excessive alcohol consumption.
Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of angina. Alcohol can cause increased blood pressure, changes in blood lipid levels, and damage the heart muscle, all of which contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption is often associated with poor eating habits to weight gain or obesity.
Obesity is one of the risk factors that increase the occurrence of angina. According to the American Heart Association, excessive alcohol consumption not only increases the risk of heart disease but also various other health problems, such as stroke and liver failure.
7. Lack of sleep.
Lack of sleep or even poor quality sleep can trigger angina. Lack of sleep can cause increased blood pressure, insulin resistance, and inflammation. These conditions can trigger heart disease. In addition, lack of sleep can also increase stress levels and worsen other health conditions, such as obesity and diabetes.
Both diseases can increase the risk of angina. Reporting from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology page, adequate and quality sleep is an important factor in maintaining heart health as well as preventing angina and other coronary heart diseases.