Question

Henry is 50 years old. He is generally overweight and has been for some time. His blood pressure is also high. He tries to exercise to lose weight, but often finds himself too tired to exercise and has frequent chest pains. He is also short of breath at times.

- What chronic disease does Henry have?
- What are 3 possible causes or triggers for the disease?
- Can the condition be cured?
- What are 3 things Henry can do to treat or cure his condition?

Answer 1

Based on the given information, Henry might have coronary heart disease (CHD), which occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked.

Three possible causes/triggers for CHD are:

Unhealthy diet: A diet high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can increase the risk of CHD.

Lack of physical activity: Lack of exercise can lead to being overweight, which is a risk factor for CHD.

Smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of CHD.

CHD is a chronic condition, and while it cannot be cured, it can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication.

Three things that Henry can do to manage his condition are:

Healthy diet: Henry should eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium. He should consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

Regular exercise: Henry should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. He should consult with his doctor to create an exercise plan that is appropriate for his condition.

Medication: Henry may need medication to manage his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. He should consult with his doctor about the appropriate medication for his condition. Additionally, he should quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.