Your heart is a hard-working organ that needs healthy arteries to function correctly. When your arteries become narrow or obstructed, the heart does not receive the required oxygen. This can lead to heart attacks, chest pains or the need for surgeries such as coronary artery bypass graft. The good news? With some care and attention, you can reduce the chances of heart disease and help keep your arteries clear.
How Arteries Become Blocked
Over the years, fatty deposits known as plaque can slowly build up inside your arteries. This makes them stiff and narrow, a condition called atherosclerosis. The tricky part is that this process is often silent—you may feel completely fine until symptoms like breathlessness, chest pressure, or tiredness start to show.
Why Check-Ups Are Worth It
Think of check-ups as your early warning system. A quick blood pressure reading, cholesterol test, or blood sugar check can highlight risks before they turn into bigger problems. If heart disease runs in your family, your GP may suggest extra tests to give you peace of mind. Staying on top of these checks makes it much easier to protect your heart in the long run.
Tests That Provide Answers
If your doctor thinks you need more detailed checks, there are several options. An electrocardiogram (ECG) records your heartbeat to see if anything looks unusual. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound that shows how your heart is working. Sometimes, scans such as CT or MRI are used to look at blood flow and plaque build-up. These tests guide the following steps, whether that’s lifestyle changes, medication, or more advanced treatment.
Everyday Choices That Make a Difference
Your diet, level of physical activity, and behaviours significantly influence the health of your arteries. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can be achieved by packing your plate full of good grains, lean protein, and veggies. Reducing consumption of harmful fats and processed meals provides additional protection. Walking, cycling, dancing, or any other form of physical activity keeps your heart strong. And one of the most effective methods to protect your arteries is to stop smoking.
When Medicine Might Be Needed
Sometimes lifestyle changes aren’t enough on their own. If that’s the case, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower cholesterol, control blood pressure, or reduce the risk of clots. These treatments are tailored to you, and regular check-ups make sure they’re working as they should.
Don’t Forget Stress and Sleep
It’s not just diet and exercise that matter. Stress and lack of sleep can put extra strain on your heart, too. High stress levels may push your blood pressure up and tempt you into habits like overeating or smoking. Finding ways to relax—whether through mindfulness, hobbies, or just time outdoors—can help. Aim for good-quality sleep as well, since poor rest over time has been linked to an increased risk of heart problems.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Prevention is the goal, but it’s just as important to notice when something feels off. Chest pain, breathlessness, swollen legs, or feeling light-headed are all signs that blood flow might be restricted. If you ever experience these, don’t brush them off—get checked as soon as possible.
When Surgery Becomes the Best Option
In case the arteries are very blocked, medical intervention might be required. In angioplasty, a small balloon (with or without a stent) is used to open the artery. In more severe instances, a coronary artery bypass graft will provide a new route through which blood flows into your heart. Such treatments may be life-saving, and the goal is to avoid issues before surgery becomes necessary.
Looking After Your Heart
Healthy arteries are associated with a healthier heart and a brighter future. You can keep your heart healthy by managing stress, making healthy daily decisions, attending regular check-ups, and being aware of the warning signs. One of the best investments you can make in your future health is to take care of your heart now.