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Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America among both men and women, yet it is one of the most preventable of modern diseases. Heart disease is a blanket term for many conditions, including coronary heart disease, ischemic heart disease and hypertensive heart disease. These types of heart disease can often be prevented by lifestyle changes and/or treated with medications to control the conditions that lead to heart disease.

CORONARY HEART DISEASE
Atherosclerosis in the arteries of the heart can cause ischemic heart disease, or coronary heart disease. Atherosclerosis occurs when arteries become lined with deposits of cholesterol, fat and calcium (called plaque) causing a loss in elasticity of the walls of the blood vessels. As a result, arteries become stiff and narrow which may cause an insufficiency of oxygen-rich blood reaching the muscles of the heart. This can lead to angina and heart attack.

ANGINA
Angina is pain or discomfort in the chest caused by an loss of blood flow to the heart muscle. It may be a squeezing pain or feel like pressure. It can also cause pain in the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw or back. It may even mimic indigestion. Angina is a symptom of coronary heart disease. There are three types of angina: stable, unstable and variant. Having any form of angina could mean you are more likely to suffer a heart attack. Unstable angina, which occurs without physical exertion and is not relieved by rest or medication, is an indicator that a heart attack may be imminent. If you suffer angina, see your doctor for a full examination.

HEART ATTACK
Knowing the symptoms of a heart attack and responding promptly greatly increases your chances of survival. If you suffer any of the symptoms of a heart attack, seek emergency care by calling 911 within five minutes - do not wait. The symptoms of a heart attack include:

* Chest pain or discomfort in the chest
* Discomfort or pain in other areas of the body, such as the neck, jaw, arms, back or stomach
* Shortness of breath
* Feeling faint
* Nausea
* Indigestion

PREVENTION
You can reduce your risk of heart disease or prevent it by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Following these simple guidelines will help you avoid being another heart disease statistic:

* Don't smoke
* Maintain a healthy weight
* Eat a diet low in fats and include a variety of fruits and vegetables
* Have your cholesterol tested
* Know your blood pressure.
* Be checked for diabetes
* Get regular exercise. You should aim for 30 minutes of exercise per week.

REDUCE OTHER RISKS
Other conditions such as diabetes, blood pressure and high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. If you have any of these conditions, you should get regular check-ups, follow your doctor's advice and take any medication prescribed.

Heart disease kills more people in the United States than any other medical condition or disease, but you don't have to be a victim. Taking the right steps today will ensure healthier tomorrows.

Learn more about this author, A. Jacobina Poulsen.
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