Have you ever stopped to think about your health, especially your heart health? Cardiovascular health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, affecting both men and women alike. While many people are aware of the basics –– diet, exercise, alcohol, smoking –– the reality is that a significant number are high-risk candidates for heart disease. And it’s not just a concern for older individuals.
Heart disease is the number one killer worldwide, with countries like India holding the unfortunate title of being the heart disease capital. Yet, how often do we actually prioritize our heart health? The truth is, it tends to be neglected until it’s too late. Regular heart check-ups are a game-changer, catching issues before they spiral out of control.
Early warning signs
There are crucial warning signs that, if detected early, can potentially save lives. These include:
Chest pain: Often the most recognisable symptom, chest pain or discomfort can indicate a blockage in the heart.
Shortness of breath: Struggling to catch your breath during regular activities can be a sign of heart disease.
Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or exhaustion can be a subtle warning of heart issues.
Palpitations: Irregular or unusually fast heartbeats can signal an underlying problem.
Being vigilant and recognising these indicators could make a significant difference in one’s health outcomes.
Why bother with a check-up?
Heart disease is a silent killer. It’s the leading cause of death, but many don’t realise it’s preventable with regular screenings. A heart check-up lets your doctor assess your risk and suggest lifestyle tweaks or medications to keep your heart in top shape. Feeling fine? That’s not enough. Heart disease can lurk without symptoms until significant damage is done. Regular check-ups mean catching problems early, before they escalate.
Keeping your heart healthy
Your heart is the engine of your body, pumping life-sustaining blood. Risk factors for heart disease include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. But here’s the good news: Healthy choices can slash your risk. Here are some heart-healthy habits:
Balanced diet: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming are excellent for heart health.
Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Quitting can significantly reduce your risk.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can harm your heart. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage stress levels.
Diagnosing & treating heart diseases
Diagnosing heart diseases often involves multiple tests, including:
Electrocardiograms (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart.
Echocardiograms: Uses ultrasound to create images of the heart.
Stress Tests: Monitors heart function under physical stress.
Cardiac catheterisation: A procedure to examine how well the heart is working.
Cardiac CT Scans and MRIs: Provide detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels.
These tests enable healthcare professionals to accurately assess the extent of the disease and plan appropriate treatment strategies.
Treatment options for heart disease encompass various approaches tailored to the individual’s condition. Medications offer symptom management and complication prevention. In more severe cases, medical interventions like stent placement or bypass surgery may be necessary, depending on the type and severity of the condition.
The golden hour
The first six hours after a heart attack is critical. Known as the golden hour, acting quickly can reverse the effects of a heart attack. Most deaths and cardiac arrests happen during this period, but reaching the hospital and getting treated within this time can lead to near-complete recovery.
Preventing a heart attack
Prevention is the best strategy. Leading a heart-healthy lifestyle and being vigilant about risk factors can significantly reduce your chances of heart disease. Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking are key preventive measures.
Heart disease is the top killer globally, but it’s often preventable. The earlier you catch potential issues, the better your chances of avoiding serious problems. Haven’t had a heart check-up recently? Now’s the time. Take action today to ensure your heart stays strong tomorrow.
(The author is a senior consultant, department of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, Apollo Adlux Hospital, Angamaly)