Dr. Yevgeny Kokin, a cardiovascular specialist, recommends first quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke, because nicotine causes spasms of the blood vessels, damages their lining, and accelerates the development of atherosclerosis.
He points out that "smokers are three times more likely to suffer a myocardial infarction than non-smokers, and it has been proven that after one year of quitting smoking, the risk of cardiovascular disease is halved."
To prevent cardiovascular disease, the doctor emphasizes the need to monitor cholesterol, glucose and insulin levels in the blood , explaining that diabetes affects both large and small blood vessels.
He also emphasizes the importance of monitoring the condition of the veins in the lower extremities , noting that varicose veins are not just an aesthetic problem, but a sign of poor venous blood flow, and a specialist should be consulted as soon as the first signs appear.
Dr. Cookin also advises monitoring blood pressure and not allowing it to exceed the normal range of 120/80 mmHg , while adhering to regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, sleeping for at least seven hours a night, and controlling stress levels.
