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Things You May Not Know Can Lead to Heart Disease

opera.com 1 day ago

Heart disease is a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. While unhealthy foods, lack of exercise, and smoking are well-known risk factors, there are other surprising things that can increase your likelihood of developing heart disease as reported by WebMD.

Research has shown that exposure to traffic noise can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart failure. For every 10-decibel increase in noise, the risk of heart disease and stroke goes up. Scientists believe that this is due to the body's stress response to noise.

Migraines, particularly those with auras, have been linked to an increased risk of stroke, chest pain, and heart attacks. Certain medications used to treat migraines, such as triptans, can also narrow blood vessels and increase the risk of heart problems.

Having children can also increase the risk of heart disease, particularly for parents who have multiple children. Women who experience early menopause or have a history of miscarriage or hysterectomy are also at higher risk.

Being short, defined as being 2.5 inches below average height, can increase the risk of heart disease by about 8%. Shorter individuals tend to have higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can contribute to heart disease.

Loneliness and social isolation can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Having few friends or being unhappy with relationships can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart problems.

Other surprising risk factors for heart disease include taking ADHD medication, working long hours, having gum disease, experiencing a troubled childhood, and having the flu. Even experiencing intense anger can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

It's essential to be aware of these surprising risk factors and take steps to mitigate them. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and addressing underlying health conditions, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and maintain overall health.

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