Oral Health and Heart Attack Risk: Seven Warning Signs to Look Out For

by time news

2023-09-16 17:05:00
Diseases can often be detected through changes in the mouth, serving as warning signs that should not be ignored. According to a report, the mouth is where the body’s first, mostly inconspicuous signals of oral cancer and other illnesses appear. Experts warn that specific symptoms in the mouth can indicate an increased risk of a heart attack.

One such symptom is periodontitis, which experts from the German Society for Periodontology (DG PARO) explain is closely linked to vascular and heart diseases. If periodontitis remains untreated, more bacteria can enter the bloodstream, even during everyday activities such as chewing or brushing teeth. In the worst-case scenario, this can lead to inflammation of the inner lining of the heart. Both periodontitis and heart diseases share common risk factors such as smoking and genetic variants.

Although a predisposition to periodontitis does not always lead to the disease, it significantly increases the risk. Severe inflammatory reactions caused by bacteria in plaque can serve as warning signs. These connections highlight the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and receiving regular check-ups or treatment visits to reduce the risks of periodontitis and tooth loss.

Experts recommend paying attention to seven warning signs in the mouth that could indicate an increased risk of heart attack. These signs include red and swollen gums, frequent bleeding from the gums, receding gums that make the teeth appear longer, sensitive teeth at the tooth necks, loose teeth, persistent bad breath and/or unpleasant taste in the mouth, and pus escaping from gum pockets.

The DG PARO emphasizes that the inflammatory diseases in the oral cavity can affect the entire body as bacteria or inflammatory substances can enter the bloodstream. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practicing thorough oral hygiene, self-checks can help recognize the first symptoms of an increased risk of heart attack.

Periodontitis is particularly significant in the context of cardiovascular diseases, which are still the second most common cause of death worldwide and the leading cause in industrialized nations. Chronic inflammation is considered a key factor in the risk of a heart attack, and periodontitis is a form of chronic inflammation that spreads throughout the body, facilitating the penetration of bacteria into the blood vessels.

Although it is difficult to determine the exact causal role of periodontitis in cardiovascular disease due to common genetic and behavioral risk factors, successful treatment of periodontitis has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize better oral hygiene and seek appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, the mouth serves as an indicator of various diseases, including oral cancer and heart diseases. Recognizing and addressing warning signs in the mouth can play a crucial role in identifying an increased risk of heart attack. Maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and seeking appropriate treatment for periodontitis are essential steps in reducing the risks of heart attack and other related health issues.]
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