Learn how to manage stress. The risk of CAD can be reduced by modifying those risk factors we can change. Smoking strains your heart by increasing your blood pressure and making it beat faster. The ability of the red blood cells to carry oxygen also decreases and the artery walls become more sensitive to cholesterol. Tobacco of any kind, whether it be cigarettes, pipe, cigars or other tobacco products, causes cancer and lung disease.
Cholesterol is the major component of the plaque found in arteries.
Cholesterol can be reduced through diet and prescription medication. Blood pressure can be lowered by diet, exercise, stress management and prescription medication. Studies have shown that atherosclerosis progresses more rapidly in persons with diabetes. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and prescription medication. Every pound of extra weight means extra work for your heart.