Who is susceptible to coronary heart disease?

Coronary artery disease, also known as myocardial ischemia, is a condition in which the blood vessels are partially narrowed or blocked, restricting blood flow to the heart. If left undetected, coronary artery disease can lead to more dangerous conditions such as complete blockage of the blood vessels and potential myocardial necrosis. In Vietnam, coronary artery disease is increasingly prevalent and affecting younger people, severely impacting the health of patients.

People at risk of coronary artery disease

Coronary artery disease is caused by the deposition of fatty substances such as cholesterol along the artery walls, known as atherosclerotic plaques. This means that the artery wall is narrowed due to thickening caused by the deposition of these fatty substances, and may even lead to blockage. Because coronary arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, untreated blockages can be very dangerous, leading to myocardial infarction or even death. Many factors can cause narrowing or blockage of one or more coronary arteries, including risk factors such as: older age (men over 50 and women over 55), men are at higher risk than women, family history, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and stress.

Identifying signs

Angina is the most basic and important sign of coronary artery disease. The pain feels like a tight, constricting, or pressing sensation, or sometimes just an uncomfortable feeling in the chest. The pain is most commonly located behind the sternum, in the middle of the chest, or in the heart region. The pain may be localized or radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulder, or left arm; in rare cases, it radiates to the back or spine. The pain is usually very brief, lasting only 10-30 seconds or a few minutes; if the pain lasts longer than 15 minutes, it may indicate a heart attack.

The disease encompasses three types of conditions:

Stable angina: This refers to a condition that has not worsened in the past few weeks. The clinical condition is usually stable, with short episodes of angina occurring during exertion and improving with rest.

Angina is the most important sign for identifying coronary artery disease.

Unstable angina: This is a clinically unstable condition where angina attacks are more frequent and prolonged, occurring even at rest. Unstable angina can lead to myocardial infarction or stabilize into stable angina. Symptoms of angina include a feeling of pressure or tightness in the center of the chest, radiating to the chin and shoulders, and symptoms such as panic and sweating. However, sometimes it is simply a feeling of discomfort in the chest area.

Myocardial infarction (heart attack): This is a condition where a coronary artery is completely and rapidly blocked, causing necrosis of the myocardial tissue behind the portion supplying the blocked artery. The mechanism of myocardial infarction is somewhat similar to unstable angina, due to the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques and the formation of blood clots that completely block the coronary artery.

Preventing coronary artery disease

A healthy lifestyle can help limit the progression of coronary heart disease. Lifestyle changes for prevention are the most effective and long-term solution, and the most effective approach is changing unhealthy habits and controlling risk factors to improve quality of life. Control physical activity, unhealthy eating habits, limit alcohol consumption, quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, and manage co-existing medical conditions for a more comfortable and healthier life. Specifically:

Build a peaceful and joyful lifestyle, avoid excessive stress, especially general stress; maintain a balanced work and living schedule, and organize your work effectively. People with coronary artery disease are often advised not to smoke, not to eat salty foods, and not to consume excessive amounts of carbohydrates.

Foods that are good for people at high risk of coronary heart disease.

A proper diet is essential, with the main nutritional components for cardiovascular patients including whole grains, legumes, nuts, and fruits and vegetables. It's important to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially dark green, yellow, and red leafy vegetables. These are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, especially vitamins C, E, A, B2, B6, and folic acid. It's also crucial to balance the diet by significantly reducing red meat (beef, buffalo, wild game) and replacing it with white meat (chicken, duck, fish). Avoid animal fats, which increase harmful cholesterol levels; instead, use vegetable oils.

Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, beer, and other stimulants. Regular exercise, appropriate to your health, is necessary. For cardiovascular disease, consistent exercise is better than high-intensity exercise. The simplest option is a 30-minute walk each day, either in the morning or evening, at least 5 times a week. Walking on a treadmill, jogging, or walking outdoors are all effective. Simultaneously, it's important to detect and treat conditions related to coronary artery disease such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity. Additionally, practice relaxation and wellness exercises for 15-20 minutes, 1-2 times daily, to promote relaxation and maintain a positive and confident spirit.

Practicing these things well can not only prevent and treat angina but also help strengthen the immune system, improve health, and enhance quality of life.

Doctor's advice
Unstable angina is very dangerous if not treated promptly because it can easily progress to a heart attack. People with angina don't need complete rest, but they should limit physical and mental exertion, avoid strenuous activity, especially sudden exertion, fast walking, climbing hills, and stairs. They should also avoid cold and drafts, refrain from bathing at night, live a balanced lifestyle with regular rest periods, and avoid working immediately after meals. Smoking should be avoided as it triggers pain, and strong coffee and tea should be limited as they can cause insomnia.

According to Health and Life