Heart of the Matter: Decoding the Triggers of Ischemic Heart Disease

Heart of the Matter: Decoding the Triggers of Ischemic Heart Disease Ischemic heart disease (IHD), often called coronary artery disease, remains a leading cause of death worldwide. It’s a stealthy condition where the heart’s blood supply gets choked, leading to chest pain, heart attacks, or worse. But what’s really behind this silent killer? Let’s dive into the latest insights, uncover the culprits, and point you to some top-tier resources to keep your heart in check. What Sparks Ischemic Heart Disease? At its core, IHD happens when the coronary arteries—those vital pipelines feeding oxygen-rich blood to your heart—narrow or clog. The usual suspect? Atherosclerosis, where fatty plaques build up like rust in a pipe. But the story doesn’t stop there. Recent research reveals a web of triggers, some surprising, that fuel this condition. The Classics: Cholesterol and Lifestyle High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol still reign as a primary driver, but it’s not just about diet. A 2...