Hey Singapore

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and Singapore is no exception. But what exactly is coronary heart disease, and how can you protect yourself? In this article, we’ll answer the question, What is coronary heart disease? and discuss its causes, symptoms, and prevention methods that are especially relevant to Singaporeans. To educate readers on coronary heart disease, help them understand their risk factors, and empower them with actionable steps to maintain a healthy heart.

Key Takeaways

• Coronary heart disease (CHD) occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart are narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup.
• Major risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles.
• Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of CHD.

What Is Coronary Heart Disease?

• Definition of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD):
  • Coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, happens when plaque (made of fat, cholesterol, and other substances) builds up inside the coronary arteries, narrowing or blocking them.
  • Impact on the Heart: This limits the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or in severe cases, heart attacks.
• Types of CHD:
  • Stable Angina: Recurring chest pain that occurs during physical activity or stress.
  • Unstable Angina: More severe and unpredictable chest pain, even at rest.
  • Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): Complete blockage of a coronary artery that results in damage to the heart muscle.

Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease in Singapore

• Unhealthy Diets:
  • Singaporeans’ high consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in sodium and fat contribute to elevated cholesterol and blood pressure levels, increasing CHD risk.
  • Local Dietary Habits: Address common dietary habits like frequent consumption of hawker center meals and how to make healthier choices.
• Sedentary Lifestyles:
  • With more people working desk jobs and leading less active lifestyles, physical inactivity has become a growing issue in Singapore. This lack of exercise is a major contributor to obesity and high cholesterol, both of which are risk factors for CHD.
• Smoking and Stress:
  • Smoking rates and high-stress environments, particularly in Singapore’s fast-paced work culture, exacerbate heart disease risks. Discuss the link between smoking, stress, and heart disease.

Prevention and Management of Coronary Heart Disease

• Healthy Lifestyle Changes:
  • Diet: A balanced diet with whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, helps strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
  • Quit Smoking: Stopping smoking can significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease within just a few years.
• Medical Management:
  • Medications: Common medications for CHD include cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins), blood pressure medications, and blood thinners.
  • Surgical Options: In advanced cases, procedures like angioplasty (to open blocked arteries) or coronary artery bypass surgery (to redirect blood flow around blocked arteries) may be necessary.
• Regular Health Screenings:
  • Encouraging Singaporeans to get regular health check-ups, monitor cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and seek medical advice if they experience symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.

Conclusion

Coronary heart disease is a serious condition that affects many Singaporeans, but by making healthy lifestyle changes and staying vigilant about your heart health, you can reduce your risk significantly. Start by assessing your lifestyle, making small changes to your diet and exercise routine, and scheduling regular health screenings to stay on top of your heart health.

FAQs

1. What is coronary heart disease?
   Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a condition where the coronary arteries that supply blood to your heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. This can lead to chest pain, heart attacks, and other serious complications.
2. What are the symptoms of coronary heart disease?
   Common symptoms include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, and in more severe cases, heart attacks. Some people may not experience any symptoms until they have a heart attack.
3. How can I prevent coronary heart disease?
   You can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, managing stress, and getting regular health check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
4. Who is at risk of coronary heart disease in Singapore?
   Individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking habits, or a sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk. Family history of heart disease and stressful work environments can also increase your risk.
5. What treatments are available for coronary heart disease?
   Treatments include lifestyle changes, medications to manage cholesterol and blood pressure, and in severe cases, surgical interventions like angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery.