How healthy is your heart?
Our hearts work hard, but even the best machines can run into difficulties.
Introduction
Cardiovascular disease refers to a wide range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is not new – evidence shows that ancient Egyptians experienced heart and blood vessel diseases 3,000 years ago. However, modern lifestyles have made some conditions more common.
The positive news is that many cases of heart disease can be prevented, often through simple lifestyle changes. In this section, you can learn more about the risk factors and find out what you can do to keep your heart healthy.
Real-life stories
600,000 people in Ireland are living with a cardiovascular condition.
Cardiovascular disease causes one in four deaths each year. Some heart conditions are present from birth, some are inherited and others are caused by viruses or infections. However, most preventable cardiovascular disease occurs because of blockages or stiffening in blood vessels due to fatty buildups, high blood pressure or smoking. Lifestyle choices can make a significant difference. Listen to the stories of people who made those choices.
When numbers count
A spur-of-the-moment blood pressure test became a wake-up call for Maura Canning when it revealed dangerously high readings. Listen to her story and discover how small lifestyle changes made a lasting difference.
When the heart attacks
Sharon Butler’s birthday celebrations took an unexpected turn when she suffered a Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) heart attack. She shares her experience and the lifestyle changes she has made since, which she wishes she had embraced sooner.
When stroke strikes
At age 31, Sharon Fitzharris’s world changed profoundly when she experienced a stroke. She reflects on coming to terms with its impact and navigating life afterwards.
Know your numbers
There are three important numbers for tracking heart health.
Heart disease can be invisible until it becomes serious, so it is important to get your numbers checked by your GP.
If you are over 40, try to do this at least once every year if possible. You can also get your blood pressure checked at a pharmacy, often for free.
- Blood pressure – This measures the force of blood pushing against your artery walls. If it is too high, it can damage your heart and arteries.
- Cholesterol – Some of this fatty substance is beneficial, but too much of the wrong type can block blood vessels.
- Blood sugar – If your average blood sugar is high for a long time, it can damage blood vessels.
Heart health roadmap
Stopping smoking
Stopping smoking reduces the risk of premature heart disease by 40%.
Reduce alcohol consumption
As a nation, we're drinking less than we used to, but 1 in 4 adults still binge drink regularly.
Healthy eating
Watch out for foods that contain a lot of salt, sugar and saturated fats - they raise blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Get active
Exercise boosts your physical and mental health. In Ireland, only 40% of people hit the target of 150 minutes a week - but every bit counts.
Take a break
Long-term stress can increase your risk of heart disease. When you can, take some time out for yourself, or reconnect with friends and family.
Heart health resources
Want to learn more? We have gathered some resources to help you look after your heart.
MyHealth RCSI: Your healthy heart
Join our colleagues at MyHealth RCSI for insights from cardiology experts and lived experience stories. This episode covers the early warning signs of heart problems, what happens during a cardiac event and how you can live well with a long-term heart condition. If you have ever wondered which symptoms you should not ignore, how different treatments work or what everyday changes you can make to protect your heart, this conversation is for you.
Irish Heart Foundation: Heart-healthy habits
Visit the Irish Heart Foundation to explore heart-healthy habits. On this website, you can also find information about a wide range of heart, stroke and thrombosis conditions, as well as the supports available.