Heart Failure is Rising in the United States

For many people, heart failure is one of the riskiest problems that can face them, especially if they have a family history of heart disease. Proper dieting and exercise can alleviate most types of heart failure risks, but the struggle is always constant. In recent studies according to the American Heart Association, professionals have found that heart disease and failure rates have been on the rise steadily in the United States. This can spell trouble for many families that do not prioritize their heart health in their lifestyles, and that same report had also said that the prevalence of heart disease was the leading cause of death in all types of people living in the United States.

Heart failure is characterized by a condition where the heart is simply too tired or weak to keep up with the necessary blood pumping through the body. The number of adults who have experienced heart failure has been rising over the past five years, reaching 800,000 over the period. This is setting a worrying trend, as it means that the number of adults who experience heart failure is mathematically expected to increase by another 46 percent by the year 2030. This means that another 8 million people are expected to experience heart failure by that time. 

Professionals have cited a number of reasons for the growing number of people with heart failure. Some of the most common factors include the general increase of an aging population and the growing number of survivors who have already experienced a heart attack in the past. These people are at an increased risk for developing heart failure because the heart will already be weakened as a result of the previous attack. Cardiovascular illnesses include various types of heart disease, as well as high blood pressure and even stroke. Those who feel as though they are at risk of such illnesses should be sure to manage their symptoms through the proper lifestyle changes.

Speaking with a medical professional can be one of the surest ways for individuals to reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular disease, but all those at risk should take the time to assess their lifestyle and think about what they can do to improve their outlook.

Always begin by assessing your diet and the food that you eat. Cutting out unnecessary calories and sugars is one of the best ways for you to get your metabolism under control. Eating foods that can help you cut down on your cholesterol, such as oats and other foods rich in fiber, can be invaluable in reducing your risk of disease.

Try to lead an active lifestyle as well. Though going to the gym can be difficult to regularly maintain for those who lead a busy life, it is important to find time to fit in some type of physical activity. Go on walks more often when you can, and try to stretch when you are not mobile.

Finally, be sure to limit the stress in your life. Stress can increase your risk for heart disease and reduce the effectiveness of lifestyle treatments and changes. Managing your stress can be one of the best ways for you to reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your outlook in the future.