Surprising Facts About Heart Disease

Heart health is a major focus for most people, and for good reason—it's terrifying to 
think that something may be wrong with your ticker. Despite this awareness, many 
people have misconceptions about heart disease and their vulnerability to it. This article 
looks at five surprising, and sometimes horrifying, facts about heart disease that you 
should be aware of.

Heart Disease is a Leading Cause of Death

The reason some causes of heart disease, like high blood pressure, are known as silent 
killers, is because there are few side effects, but often detrimental consequences. It is 
not only a leading cause in men, but women as well. Even simple changes can reduce 
your risk for heart disease becoming fatal, including eating a healthy diet and getting 
regular exercise.

Many Conditions are Known as Heart Disease

One thing you should know is that heart disease is more of a blanket term for related 
medical conditions. These include congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, 
congenital heart disease, and heart attacks. While these diseases have a combination 
of different causes and side effects, you should take any and all of them seriously. If you 
have any reason to suspect you might have one of these forms of heart disease, talk to 
your doctor right away.

You Should Know the Most Dangerous Form

If you are wondering which of these heart diseases is the most common and the most 
dangerous, it is coronary artery disease. This is when your arteries get clogged from 
buildup, which can then lead to a fatal heart attack.

Moving forward, it is important that you have regular visits with your doctor to determine 
your health, get regular exercise, and eat a sensible diet. 

Even if you follow these healthy lifestyle rules, you should also know that your genetics 
can play a role in whether or not you get any of these forms of heart disease. You 
should still do what you can to reduce your risk regardless of whether you might be at a 
high risk or not, but also see your doctor for regular checkups. You may need anything 
from medication that lowers your blood pressure and cholesterol, to losing weight, or 
even having certain types of surgical procedures. 

You should always take your heart health seriously and not underestimate the potential 
dangers of heart disease, whether it means avoiding a heart attack or if your doctor has 
diagnosed you with hypertension. 

