WELCOME to the ATRIAL SEPTAL DEFECT COMMUNITY: This Patient-To-Patient Community is for discussions relating to Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) which is a hole in the part of the septum that separates the atria (the upper chambers of the heart). This hole allows oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to flow into the right atrium instead of flowing into the left ventricle as it should. This means that oxygen-rich blood gets pumped back to the lungs, where it has just been, instead of going to the body.
How Can Coronary Artery Disease...
How Can Coronary Artery Disease Be Prevented or Delayed?
Taking action to control your risk factors can help prevent or delay coronary artery disease (CAD). Your chance of developing CAD goes up with the number of risk factors you have.
Making lifestyle changes and taking prescribed medicines are important steps. See "How Is Coronary Artery Disease Treated?" for information on heart healthy eating plans, physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and medicines.
Know your family history of health problems related to CAD. If you or someone in your family has CAD, be sure to tell your doctor. Also, let your doctor know if you smoke.
Author/Source: National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute, Division of the National Institutes of Health [NIH]
Retrieved: June 2008
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