Heart Disease and Stroke 411
Heart disease is usually caused when plaque build ups in the walls of the arteries. This build up narrows the arteries, making it hard for blood to flow through. Sometimes, blood clots form, completely stopping blood flow. This can cause a stroke.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, increases your heart's workload by quietly damaging your blood vessels and arteries over time. It is the leading cause of stroke.