We often hear that heart attacks are caused by blockages in the arteries. While that’s certainly a big part of the story, there’s much more to it. Heart disease is a complex condition with several surprising factors contributing to the risk of heart attacks. Dr. Sarita Rao, one of the leading heart specialists in India, breaks down some of the lesser-known factors that could be putting your heart at risk.

It’s Not Just About Fat – Other Surprising Triggers

Everyone knows that high cholesterol can lead to blockages in the arteries, but did you know that stress can also be a major player in heart attacks? Chronic stress leads to an increase in the production of hormones like cortisol, which can elevate blood pressure and trigger inflammation, making arteries more prone to narrowing and damage.

Additionally, studies show that lack of sleep is linked to a higher risk of heart disease. Sleep deprivation affects your blood pressure, increases inflammation, and impacts the function of your blood vessels. So, if you’re skimping on sleep to keep up with life, your heart might be paying the price.

The Silent Threat: High Blood Pressure

Hypertension, often called the “silent killer,” is one of the biggest factors leading to heart disease. It doesn’t show obvious symptoms, but over time, high blood pressure can damage the arteries, causing them to harden and narrow, which makes it harder for blood to flow through. This increases the likelihood of a heart attack. Dr. Sarita Rao emphasizes that managing your blood pressure should be a top priority when it comes to heart health.

Genetics: A Factor You Can’t Ignore

While lifestyle plays a significant role in heart health, genetics is also a major factor. If your family has a history of heart disease, you might be at a higher risk, even if you lead a healthy lifestyle. That’s why it’s so important to talk to your doctor about your family history and get regular check-ups, especially if heart disease runs in your family.

Inflammation: The Hidden Danger

Infections or diseases that cause chronic inflammation can also raise the risk of heart attacks. Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and even gum disease (yes, your oral health matters!) have been linked to higher inflammation levels in the body, which can increase the likelihood of plaque buildup in the arteries. Dr. Sarita Rao stresses the importance of managing chronic conditions to reduce this inflammation.

Why Dr. Sarita Rao Is the Heart Specialist You Can Trust

When it comes to heart care in India, Dr. Sarita Rao stands out as one of the best female cardiologists. With over 20 years of experience, she’s made waves in the field of interventional cardiology. As the Senior Interventional Cardiologist and Director of the Cathlab at Apollo Hospitals in Indore, Dr. Rao has become a trailblazer in cardiovascular care, revolutionizing heart treatments in India and across the SAARC countries. Her expertise goes beyond advanced procedures—Dr. Rao is also committed to community care. Her public awareness campaigns and free health checkups have reached over 100,000 people. She is also a mentor and advocate for women in cardiology, serving as the first female Fellowship Director for the International Interventional Cardiology Fellows at Apollo Hospitals.

Protect Your Heart with Knowledge

Heart disease is complicated, and the factors that lead to heart attacks aren’t always what we expect. With the guidance of experts like Dr. Sarita Rao, we can take steps to understand and reduce our risks. Regular checkups, a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed are the keys to a strong, healthy heart.

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Website – https://drsaritaraocardiologist.com

Contact Number – +91 9893925000

Email – info@drsaritaraocardiologist.com