Cardiologist explains main cause of atherosclerosis
Doctors often cite improper nutrition, excess weight, especially in the abdominal area, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and alcohol abuse as causes of atherosclerosis. But that’s not entirely true. These are all risk factors. Russian cardiologist Anna Korenevich explained the main cause of atherosclerosis.
As the doctor pointed out, atherosclerosis – as well as diabetes and high blood pressure – can also occur in people who lead an exceptionally healthy lifestyle. It’s just that those with a healthy lifestyle are much less likely to suffer from this triad than those with bad habits.
“Correcting risk factors reduces the possibility of cardiovascular diseases,” the specialist added. “Lifestyle changes have a huge impact on the length and quality of life of these patients. This is an important aspect of health, but not the cause. Stress is the root cause of all cardiovascular diseases.”
Ms. Korenevich explained that if you have atherosclerosis and/or diabetes along with high blood pressure, then stress is slowly killing you.
“Stress is strong negative emotions,” the cardiologist emphasised. “Therefore, you need to turn them into positive ones. To do this, you should start seeing a psychologist who will help you assess your stressful situations, understand why you are constantly experiencing stress and how to get rid of it. You need to find the cause of this negative emotion, and then work through it with a specialist. It can be psychological traumas, workaholism, physical injuries, unresolved issues, problems in society, age crisis or adaptive situation.”
Moreover, the doctor added that breathing techniques, meditation, positive emotions, good food, favourite hobbies, music, walking, warm baths, cosmetic procedures, shopping, sport and physical exercise can help reduce stress.
