Risks for heart disease

High risks for heart disease are people that suffer from untreated high blood pressure, untreated diabetes or both. These diseases increase the probability of heart attack, stroke or death. Other risks factors for heart disease are smoking and high blood cholesterol levels.

High blood cholesterol can lead to the hardening of the arteries and fatty deposits (blood mud) in the lining of the arteries. Treatments that lower high blood pressure and control diabetes greatly decrease the chance of heart attack or stroke. Diet is extremely important in controlling heart disease: people with heart disease need to eat foods low in salt and low in fat. Maintaining a healthy diet coupled with taking the prescribed medications can reduce the fatty deposits inside of the arteries.