• Heart Disease Risk Factors
  • Controllable Risk Factors
  • Uncontrollable Risk Factors
  • Contributing Factors to Heart Disease
  • HEART Beat Risk Profile Test
• Heart Health

Contributing Factors To Heart Disease

Stress

Life is unpredictable. We are constantly adjusting to the changes life brings our way. Stress can be defined as just that, any change that results in an adjustment. The way you respond to stress can also be a contributing factor to heart and vascular disease. For example, some people may have increased blood pressure because of their increased stress level, or they may tend to overeat or use tobacco to help cope with the stress in their lives. There are many different types of stress management/relaxation that can be helpful in dealing with stress in your life. Please contact your health care provider for more information.

Alcohol

While some researchers have reported benefits from drinking alcohol, increasing your alcohol consumption may increase other risks for you, such as high blood pressure or high triglyceride levels, and could lead to stroke or heart failure. Check with your health care provider before drinking alcohol. This is especially important if you are taking medications.

Birth Control Pills

Women who take oral contraceptives and have other risk factors for heart and vascular disease, especially tobacco use, have an increased chance for developing blood clots and/or having a heart attack. This risk increases even more after age 35. If you currently take birth control pills, it is important to follow up with your health care provider yearly to monitor your blood pressure, triglyceride and glucose levels.

Source: American Heart Association 2002