Eric Bauza, the Emmy-winning voice actor known for playing Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, has died at 46 from hypertensive cardiovascular disease, according to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner records.Variety reported that Bauza died at his home on Sunday 25 October. His family announced his death on Instagram that night, saying he had 'passed away suddenly'.

Channing Dungey, chair of Warner Bros Television Group and US Networks, called him a unique voice talent who brought joy to millions. She said he 'followed in the footsteps of giants like Mel Blanc', the original voice of the characters.

It has not been publicly stated whether Bauza had been diagnosed with high blood pressure before his death.

What Is Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease?

Hypertensive cardiovascular disease refers to damage to the heart and blood vessels associated with persistently high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Persistently raised pressure forces the heart to work harder, can thicken the heart muscle and damages artery walls, increasing the risk of heart attack, heart failure and stroke.

The NHS says high blood pressure usually causes no noticeable symptoms, meaning many people have it without realising it. Very high blood pressure can sometimes cause headaches, blurred vision or chest pain, while symptoms of heart failure may include shortness of breath and swollen ankles or legs.

People who experience persistent chest pain or sudden breathlessness should seek urgent medical help. In the UK, that means calling 999.

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How High Blood Pressure Is Diagnosed and Treated

The NHS generally defines high blood pressure as a reading of 140/90mmHg or higher in a clinic, or an average of 135/85mmHg or higher at home. Risk factors include increasing age, family history, smoking, excess weight, a high-salt diet, excessive alcohol consumption and physical inactivity. The prevalence of hypertension also varies between ethnic groups.

None of this suggests that any particular factor applied to Bauza, and the circumstances of his death have not been detailed.

Treatment usually begins with lifestyle changes such as weight management, regular exercise, less salt and alcohol, and stopping smoking.

Where these are not enough, doctors may prescribe medicines including ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers or diuretics to lower blood pressure and protect the heart. Detecting hypertension early lowers the risk of complications.

In England, eligible adults aged 40 to 74 who do not have certain pre-existing conditions are invited for a free NHS Health Check every five years, which includes a blood pressure test. Pharmacies and many GP surgeries also offer checks, and home monitors are available.

A Prolific Career in Animation

Born in Scarborough, Toronto, on 7 December 1979, Bauza was of Filipino descent and began his career behind the scenes in animation before moving into voice work. Across more than two decades, he amassed more than 400 acting credits.

He voiced Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Tweety, Elmer Fudd and Foghorn Leghorn in projects including Looney Tunes Cartoons, Space Jam: A New Legacy and this year's Coyote vs. Acme. He also appeared in DreamWorks Animation's Forgotten Island.

Bauza won three Children's and Family Emmy Awards, for Looney Tunes Cartoons, Bugs Bunny Builders and Teen Titans Go!. He spent 15 years at Warner Bros Animation.

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