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5 Surprising Heart Attack Risk Factors

You’re probably aware of the usual heart diseases causes, including poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise, etc. But there are other risk factors that may surprise you. In this article, we share the under-the-radar risks factors for heart attacks that you need to know.

Factors that Increase Your Risk of Heart Disease

Sleep Disorders

Plain old snoring can be a bit annoying. However, sleep apnea, which is when a snorer continuously stops breathing for a few moments, can lead to life-threatening heart problems and increase the risk of heart attack. Fortunately, sleep apnea can be treated with a CPAP device. This treatment plan involves a mask that keeps breathing passages open and oxygen flowing.

Migraines

Recent studies have found that people who suffer from migraines may be more likely to develop cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, stroke, irregular heart rhythm, and blood cots. If you experience migraines, make sure to tell your doctor so you can be monitored for warning signs.

Flu

The flu doesn’t just make you feel lousy. It also increases your risk of having a heart attack. In fact, people with the flu are six times more likely to suffer from a heart attack. To reduce your risk of influenza infection, we recommend getting a flu shot at the beginning of flu season.

Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, lead to inflammation, which damages blood vessels and causes plaque to buildup. If you’re one of the 23 million Americans who suffer from an autoimmune disease, talk to you doctor about your diagnosis and how you can mediate the inflammation.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that can get into your blood and create inflammation and fatty deposits in the heart blood vessels. To prevent gum disease, be sure to brush and floss properly and see your dentist for regular checkups.

Contact Lakeview Family Medicine Today

The best way to prevent heart attacks is regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep. However, if you still suffer from high blood pressure  or hypertension, it’s possible to get back on the right track. When you work with our clinic, we’ll help you come up with an action plan and coach you along the way.

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