What is Heart Disease?

Your heart is a muscle that gets energy from blood carrying oxygen and nutrients. Having a constant supply of blood keeps your heart working properly. Most people think of heart disease as one condition. But in fact, heart disease is a group of condtions affecting the structure and functions of the heart and has many root causes. Coronary artery disease, for example, develops when a combination of fatty materials, calcium and scar tissue, (called plaque) builds up in the arteries that supply blood to your heart (coronary arteries). The plaque build up narrows the arteries and prevents the heart from getting enough blood.

What You Can Do?

Your best defense is controlling the risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cigarette smoke, stress, excessive alcohol consumption, inactivity, managing diabetes, and being at a weight that is unhealthy for you. Visit your doctor regularly and follow his or her advice. For more information ask your Dell Pharmacist or contact the Heart & Stroke Foundation.