Beyond Cholesterol: 17 Tiny Habits That Worsen Your Artery Plaque

15. Over-reliance on NSAIDs (Hidden Fluid & Pressure Hike)

A persistent habit of taking Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, even at recommended over-the-counter doses, can subtly sabotage arterial health. These medications can cause the kidneys to retain sodium and water, which directly increases blood volume and elevates blood pressure. Since high blood pressure is a primary force that stresses and injures arterial walls, this unnecessary fluid retention creates a mechanical environment conducive to plaque formation. For individuals who rely on NSAIDs more than a few days a week, this fluid dynamic poses a hidden, preventable risk to their arteries.

16. Ignoring the Seasonal Blood Pressure Fluctuation

Blood pressure naturally runs higher in the winter months because colder temperatures cause peripheral blood vessels to constrict (vasoconstriction) to conserve core heat. Ignoring this seasonal change means your arteries are consistently under higher mechanical stress for half the year. This prolonged arterial stiffness and hypertension accelerate the micro-damage to the endothelial lining. Failing to adjust lifestyle habits (like increasing exercise or modifying salt intake) or medication (under doctor's guidance) during colder months allows this preventable stress to chip away at the integrity of your arteries, making them more vulnerable to plaque accumulation.