Feeling fatigued is a common problem that many people experience on a daily basis. Whether it’s due to lack of sleep, a busy schedule, or stress, fatigue can be extremely difficult to overcome.

However, did you know that feeling fatigued may also be a sign of an increased risk for heart disease and stroke?.

The link between fatigue and heart disease

Feeling fatigued may actually be a symptom of an underlying heart condition. For example, if you have heart failure, you may feel tired and fatigued because your heart is not pumping blood effectively throughout your body.

Additionally, if you have heart disease that is causing chest pain or shortness of breath, you may feel tired because your body is working harder to pump blood to your heart and lungs.

A study conducted by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center found that people who reported feeling extremely fatigued were 30% more likely to have plaque buildup in their arteries, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.

The study also found that people who felt tired during the day were more likely to have a higher body mass index (BMI) and higher blood pressure, both of which are also risk factors for heart disease.

The link between fatigue and stroke

Feeling fatigued may also be a sign of an increased risk for stroke.

According to a study published in the journal Stroke, people who reported feeling extremely fatigued were more likely to have a higher risk of stroke, regardless of other risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes. The study also found that people who reported feeling tired throughout the day were at a higher risk of stroke.

What can you do to reduce your risk?

If you are feeling fatigued, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if an underlying medical condition is causing your symptoms.

Additionally, there are lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke:.

1. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and reducing your risk for heart disease and stroke. Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

2. Eat a healthy diet

Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke.

3. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can help improve your cardiovascular health and reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

4. Manage stress

Chronic stress can contribute to the development of heart disease and stroke. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

5. Quit smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your cardiovascular health.

Conclusion

Feeling fatigued can be a sign of an increased risk for heart disease and stroke. If you are experiencing fatigue, talk to your healthcare provider to determine if an underlying medical condition is causing your symptoms.

Additionally, making lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and quitting smoking can help reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke.