Heart disease causes: Five avoidable risk factors for UK’s DEADLIEST condition

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the UK, with heart and circulatory diseases killing more than one in four people in the UK.

According to the Mayo Clinic, heart disease symptoms depend on which type you have.

However, they commonly include racing heartbeat, lightheadedness, fluttering in the chest, swelling in the ankles and fatigue.

The disease is easier to treat if caught early so you should seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, fainting or shortness of breath.

However, preventing it in the first place is even more preferable.

Here are five risk of factors heart disease you should stop now.

Smoking

The Mayo Clinic explains that the nicotine in cigarettes constricts your blood vessels, while carbon monoxide can damage their inner lining.

This can make blood vessels more susceptible to atherosclerosis – where the arteries become clogged with fatty substances.

Research has found that heart attacks are more common in smokers than in non-smokers.

Being sedentary

A lack of exercise has been associated with many forms of heart disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Physical activity can keep your heart in good condition.

Stress

Feeling regularly stressed can damage your arteries and worsen other risk factors.

Studies have linked stress to changes in the way blood clots, which can increase risk of heart attack.

Poor diet

A diet that’s high in fat, salt, sugar and cholesterol can contribute to heart disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Eating saturated and trans fats in particular can increase blood cholesterol and heart attack rates.

Poor hygiene

According to the Mayo Clinic, not regularly washing your hands or other unhygienic habits can help prevent viral or bacterial infections.

These can put you at risk of heart infections, particularly if you already have an underlying heart condition.

Additionally, research has found that poor dental health also may contribute to heart disease.