Managing 3 Risk Factors of Heart Disease and Heart Attack

Out of our country’s 1.3 billion population, nearly 60 million people suffer from heart-related diseases. Previously considered an urban issue, heart ailments have now spread to rural areas, affecting an increasing number of small-town and village dwellers. Recent trends also indicate that younger individuals are increasingly being diagnosed with heart disease.

The critical nature of heart disease is evident from its high fatality rate, with nearly 50% of deaths occurring within the first hour of a heart attack. Therefore, prevention is just as crucial as treatment. Heart health is influenced by multiple factors, some of which are under our control. These include:

• Blood Pressure
• Diabetes
• Excess Cholesterol
• Obesity
• Smoking and Tobacco
• Mental Stress
• Sedentary Lifestyle

Understanding and managing these risk factors can significantly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and congestive heart failure (CHF). Here’s how you can control three major risk factors for heart disease:

1. Smoking and Your Heart

Smoking adversely affects the blood vessels, reducing oxygen levels and damaging blood vessel walls. It also contributes to atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries narrow and clog, limiting blood supply.

Due to these reasons, smoking increases the risk of:

• Heart Attack – 2 times higher
• Stroke – 3 times higher
• Angina – 20 times higher
• Peripheral Arterial Disease – 5 times higher

Benefits of Quitting Smoking

According to WHO, quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease:

• In 1 year, the risk of coronary heart disease is reduced by 50%.
• In 5 years, the risk of stroke falls to the level of a non-smoker.
• In 10 years, the risk of coronary heart disease is equivalent to that of a non-smoker.

2. Managing Your Blood Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance carried in the blood. While essential for the body, an imbalance can lead to heart disease.

Types of Cholesterol:

• Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL-C) – Bad Cholesterol: Leads to cholesterol buildup in arteries, increasing heart disease risk.
• High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL-C) – Good Cholesterol: Helps prevent cholesterol accumulation in arteries.
• Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that can elevate heart disease risk, especially when combined with low HDL cholesterol.

How to Lower Cholesterol Levels

• Eat heart-healthy foods low in saturated fats and trans fats.
• Quit smoking.
• Drink alcohol in moderation.
• Exercise regularly.

3. Managing Your Blood Pressure

Blood pressure plays a crucial role in heart function. High blood pressure (hypertension) increases the risk of heart failure and myocardial infarction.

Blood Pressure Levels:

• Optimal: Below 120/80 mmHg
• Normal to High: 120/80 mmHg – 139/89 mmHg
• Hypertension: Persistently high blood pressure that needs medical attention

How to Control High Blood Pressure

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
• Reduce caffeine and sodium consumption.
• Manage stress effectively.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

CHF is a condition where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently. Common causes of CHF include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and previous heart attacks.

Symptoms of CHF:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the legs and feet
• Persistent cough
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Treating CHF:

• Medication to improve heart function
• Lifestyle changes such as a low-sodium diet and regular exercise
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking
• In severe cases, surgical interventions may be required

Conclusion

If lifestyle modifications are not enough to control your risk factors, consulting a cardiologist at EMC Hospital is advisable. Proper medical guidance can help improve symptoms and manage risk factors effectively. Prioritizing heart health today can prevent complications like congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, and other cardiovascular diseases in the future.

Take charge of your heart health—adopt a healthy lifestyle and seek medical assistance when needed.