Coronary heart disease
Actor Rudolph Walker, 65, is a far cry from Patrick Trueman, the rum-swilling, fry-up-eating character he plays in EastEnders. In real life, he takes great care to ensure his heart stays in tip-top condition.
"I eat lots of fish and fresh vegetables, and only occasionally have red meat. I resist the temptation of the stodgy food on the EastEnders set by bringing in my own meals, such as vegetable soup."
"I love playing tennis and cricket. But I don't always get the chance, so I try to go to the gym once or twice a week for a cardiovascular workout on the running machine."
"I'm luckyI've never smoked, even as a young man. I know it is hard for people to give up,but it is so important."
"I hardly drink just the odd glass of wine. Drinking is fine, but only in moderation."
"Every man over the age of 50 should have regular check-ups. I have one every six months to make sure everything is in working order,particularly my blood pressure and cholesterol levels."
Find out about coronary heart disease, which is a major cause of death both in the UK and worldwide. It's responsible for more than 73,000 deaths in the UK each year.
The most common symptoms of coronary heart disease (CHD) are chest pain (angina) and a heart attack. You can also experience other symptoms, such as palpitations and unusual breathlessness...
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is usually caused by a build-up of fatty deposits on the walls of the arteries around the heart (coronary arteries). Your risk of developing atherosclerosis is significantly increased if you; smoke, have high blood pressure, etc.
Classification of heart diseases
If your doctor thinks you may be at risk of developing CHD, they may carry out a risk assessment for cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction or stroke . This may be carried out as part of a health check.
Although coronary heart disease (CHD) cannot be cured, treatment can help manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of further problems. If you have been diagnosed with CHD, you can reduce your risk of further episodes by making simple lifestyle changes.
After having heart surgery or problems like a heart attack, it is possible to resume a normal life. If you have heart surgery, a member of the cardiac rehabilitation team may visit you in hospital to give you information about your condition and the procedure you are having.
There are several ways you can help lower your risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD), such as reducing your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. You should limit the amount of salt you eat to no more than 6g (0.2oz) a day, as too much salt will increase your blood pressure.
After a heart attack, 36-year-old Debbie Siddons was too scared to pick up her 18-month-old baby. Rehabilitation helped her move on with her life.
Actor Rudolph Walker, 65, is a far cry from Patrick Trueman, the rum-swilling, fry-up-munching character he plays in EastEnders.
A quick diagnosis and emergency treatment saved Lynn Connor's life. She shares her story.