Heart health: 5 major causes of coronary disease and artery blockage
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Why arteries clog
Coronary artery disease usually stems from atherosclerosis—fatty plaques that narrow heart arteries—driven by modifiable risks like high LDL, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and obesity/low activity, alongside age and family history.
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High LDL cholesterol and atherogenic lipids
Excess LDL particles enter artery walls, trigger inflammation, and form plaques; low HDL and high triglycerides compound risk, making LDL lowering a central prevention target in all major guidelines. Diet changes and statins/other agents reduce events by stabilizing or shrinking plaques.
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High blood pressure (hypertension)
Chronic pressure damages vessel lining, accelerates plaque buildup, and raises clot risk; it is among the most prevalent, modifiable CAD risks worldwide. Treating BP with lifestyle and medications lowers heart attack, stroke, and heart failure rates.
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Cigarette smoking and tobacco exposure
Smoke toxins injure endothelium, promote clotting, reduce oxygen delivery, and speed atherosclerosis; even secondhand smoke elevates risk. Quitting rapidly cuts cardiovascular risk within months and continues to improve it over years.
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Diabetes and insulin resistance
High glucose and insulin resistance foster vessel inflammation, dyslipidemia, and thickened arterial walls; diabetes roughly doubles CAD risk. Tight risk‑factor control (glucose, BP, lipids) and cardio‑protective agents reduce events in diabetes.
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Obesity and physical inactivity
Excess adiposity and low activity worsen BP, lipids, and insulin resistance, indirectly accelerating plaque growth; central obesity is particularly harmful. Weight loss and regular aerobic/resistance activity improve multiple risks simultaneously.
(Disclaimer: This story is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a registered dietitian or healthcare provider for personalized guidance.)
(Disclaimer: This story is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a registered dietitian or healthcare provider for personalized guidance.)