Sometimes, it’s obvious that something is threatening our health. However, it’s much more challenging to live with those invisible factors that initially go unnoticed but ultimately lead to serious illnesses.
So, what are the unseen and undetectable causes that can trigger heart problems?
1. Air Pollution
Living in an area with high levels of air pollution significantly increases the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases. This is the view of Ayaz Sultan, a consultant cardiologist at the British clinic Pall Mall Medical.
He asserts that air pollutants damage blood vessels, making them narrower and stiffer. This impedes the smooth flow of blood throughout the body and can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and even changes in the structure of the heart.
The expert advises avoiding prolonged exposure to polluted air, especially in rooms filled with cigarette smoke and on busy roads.
2. High Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol levels are a primary cause of cardiovascular diseases. When cholesterol levels are abnormally high, fatty deposits can accumulate in blood vessels. This reduces blood flow and can lead to clot formation.
Typically, high cholesterol does not present any symptoms, notes Jules Payne, CEO of the charity Heart UK. The only way to find out about the problem is to undergo a cholesterol test.
According to the expert, high cholesterol levels are negatively impacted by consuming large amounts of saturated fats and alcohol, smoking, and neglecting physical exercise.
Maintaining normal cholesterol levels is especially crucial if a person has previously experienced a heart attack or stroke. Researchers indicate that about half of those who have faced such unfortunate events may suffer another within the next 114 days.
3. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure rarely shows symptoms; however, it is one of the leading causes of strokes and heart attacks, reports the Independent.
As with cholesterol levels and other factors, lifestyle changes can help prevent heart diseases. Medical professionals recommend that everyone over 40 regularly monitor their blood pressure.
4. Gut Microbiome
The idea that the gut microbiome (trillions of microorganisms living in the intestines) affects cardiovascular health is not new. However, scientists continue to explore the connection between microbiota diversity and the risk of cardiovascular diseases, notes dietitian and nutritionist Sarah Schenker.
Researchers have gathered substantial evidence that certain bacteria can influence heart health. This is linked to compounds produced by gut bacteria when breaking down specific foods. These compounds can raise cholesterol levels, damage blood vessels, and lead to cardiovascular diseases.
A revamped diet can help prevent this. It’s essential to consume plenty of fiber, a variety of vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, and more.
Some studies have shown that probiotics formed during fermentation can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut and slightly lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
5. Hormonal Changes in Women
This is another significant reason for the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases.
The hormone estrogen is naturally produced by the female body throughout life, providing protection against heart ailments. However, menopause forces the body to produce significantly less estrogen, explains cardiovascular disease expert Mikaela Nuttall.
During this time, cholesterol levels rise, blood pressure increases, and fat distribution in the body becomes irregular. This means that nearly all factors leading to cardiovascular diseases are present.
Therefore, it’s important to take some simple steps to improve heart health during menopause. Choosing heart-healthy foods, such as vegetables and whole grains, can help. Regular physical exercise should not be overlooked either.
6. Loneliness
In 2018, a team of Danish scientists from the Cardiology Center at Copenhagen University Hospital conducted an intriguing study. The researchers analyzed data from thousands of patients with heart problems. The findings revealed that participants who felt lonely experienced heart diseases more frequently. This group also exhibited a higher mortality rate. While it’s not always clear why loneliness harms health, it is now widely recognized as a contributing factor to cardiovascular diseases.