There are certain risk factors that can lead you to have clogged arteries. Some of these are,
- High levels of LDL cholesterol (also called bad cholesterol) in the blood.
- Smoking. This never helps and is a risk factor for many health conditions. Consider quitting seriously. Passive smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke is just as dangerous, so take steps to ensure you are not exposed to it. Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Smoking also interferes with the oxygenation process by constricting blood vessels and also makes your heart work faster as a consequence.
- Obesity.
- Lack of physical activity.
- High blood sugar levels.
- Elevated levels of the protein called CRP or C-reactive protein may also be an indicator of possible clogged arteries/plaque formation.
- Family history of heart disease.
- High blood pressure, which is defined as blood pressure staying consistently over 140/90 over a period of time.
