Divine Heart and Multispeciality Hospital

  Air quality nowadays and its adjoining areas continued to worsen triggering a health crisis. This may lead to a spike in chronic cough cases, respiratory problems in children and adults as well as contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death. Study found that long-term exposure to particulate matter and nitrogen oxides at levels close to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) can prematurely age blood vessels and contribute to a more rapid buildup of calcium in the coronary artery. This buildup of calcium can restrict blood flow to the heart and other major blood vessels —increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. Healthy individuals exposed to air particle pollution over the long term had accelerated cases of atherosclerosis—to the extent that some participants’ risk for heart attack increased. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce the harmful effects of air pollution and keep your heart

  High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, refers to the high force of blood pushing against the artery wall. It is one of the more common conditions that affects the Indian population. It is estimated that 1 in 4 individuals have hypertension in India but very few people have it under control. Additionally, cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes are some of the most common causes of death in India. High blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular conditions and must be kept in check so that the functioning of other body parts is not affected. Hypertension is also called the ‘silent killer’ due to its lack of symptoms. Normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 mm Hg. Any number over 130/80mm Hg or higher is considered to be high blood pressure.   Types of Hypertension Hypertension is of two types: Primary hypertension - Primary hypertension or essential hypertension does not have a medical cause. It develops over the years; fami