Vascular disease is the general term for conditions that affect the blood vessels, including heart attack, stroke and coronary artery disease.

Vascular disease is not limited to older adults; it can strike anyone at any age, at any time. If there is a family history of vascular disease, patients should be especially diligent to stay healthy.

You can improve your overall health and risk of developing vascular disease by following these health guidelines.

• Don’t smoke. And if you do smoke, stop immediately. This also goes for other tobacco products such as chewing tobacco, pipes and smokeless tobacco
• Adopt healthy eating habits, including plenty of fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Avoid excess sugar, sodium, fat and red meat
• Get regular exercise, at least 30 minutes, four to six times per week
• Reduce stress, through exercise, meditation or other efforts
• If you are a diabetic, keep your blood sugar levels under control
• Take medications if you need them to help lower your cholesterol and lower your blood pressure
• Get regular checkups from your doctor, and make sure your doctor knows of your family history

Sources:          Vascular Cures, MedicineNet.com