February isn’t solely a month for chocolate hearts — it is also an opportunity to reflect on the one pumping in your chest. Cardiovascular disease serves as the primary cause of heart attacks and is the top cause of mortality among men, women, and individuals across various racial and ethnic backgrounds. However, the positive news is that through healthy lifestyle choices and regular consultations with your healthcare provider, you can diminish your risk.

Paul Ou, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M University College of Medicine, elaborates on the symptoms and risk elements associated with heart attacks — along with actionable strategies to safeguard your heart. Subpar dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and stress can all heighten your risk, but focusing on exercise, nutrition, and adequate rest can substantially fortify your heart.

What Constitutes A Heart Attack?

A heart attack transpires when the blood supply to the heart is diminished or entirely obstructed. This disruption is frequently a result of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque—an amalgamation of fat, cholesterol, and various other substances—accumulates within the coronary arteries, gradually narrowing them. Should a plaque rupture, it can instigate a clot that completely halts blood flow, inflicting damage on the heart tissue.

“A heart attack represents a life-threatening situation. In the absence of blood supply, the heart muscle affected will commence dying. Without prompt restoration of blood flow by a healthcare provider, a heart attack can lead to irreversible heart damage or fatality,” remarked Ou.

Indicators Of A Heart Attack

Heart attack indicators can differ substantially between individuals, and recognizing them could potentially save lives. When the heart fails to receive sufficient blood due to blocked arteries, it may induce chest pain or discomfort termed angina. If angina worsens or arises unexpectedly, it may indicate an imminent heart attack, necessitating immediate medical intervention.

Given that symptoms can differ, it is crucial to be aware of warning signs early on. Men and women frequently exhibit heart attack symptoms differently, with women being more prone to exhibit subtle or even apparently symptom-free signs, complicating detection.

“Many tend to dismiss indicators like reflux or indigestion, but it’s essential to heed your body’s signals and regard these signs seriously to avert further escalation of symptoms,” stated Ou.

Some evident symptoms are:

• Shortness of breath, which may manifest with or without chest discomfort.
• Chest pain that may linger for several minutes, lessen, and then reemerge. It may feel like pressure, tightness, fullness, or pain.
• Discomfort or tingling in the arms, back, neck, shoulder, or jaw.

Less apparent symptoms encompass:

• Feeling excessively fatigued, weak, or lightheaded.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat.
• Heartburn-like sensations.
• Cold sweats.

If you or someone close to you exhibits heart attack symptoms, remain calm. Staying composed during a crisis is vital, as heightened emotions can elevate stress and exacerbate heart attack symptoms. Maintain a soothing environment, and seek medical help without delay.

Michael Middleton, associate director of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at Texas A&M University Health Services, provides guidance on actions to take if you or someone nearby has a heart attack. Calling 911 immediately enables dispatchers to evaluate the situation and offer critical instructions. They might inquire about allergies, advise you to consume aspirin, and guide you in readying for EMS arrival, such as unlocking doors and identifying anyone trained in CPR. While waiting, keep a level head, refrain from eating or drinking, and remain in a comfortable position. Following their guidance is imperative — early action can save lives.

“If you’re driving and experience dizziness, chest pain, blurred vision, or similar symptoms, you should likely stop driving, find a secure location, and request assistance,” Middleton advised.

Contributing Factors

Age, gender, medical history, and family background are significant factors that can elevate your risk of experiencing a heart attack. Consulting with your healthcare provider can assist in managing, mitigating or preventing these risks.

As you grow older, so does the potential risk of a heart attack. Men are generally more susceptible than women and often suffer heart attacks earlier in life. While the risk for women increases post-menopause, their probability of a heart attack remains lower than that of men. Among individuals 65 years old and above, women have an elevated risk of dying from a heart attack, even though both genders can experience heart attacks as they age.

Individuals from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds often encounter high blood pressure at an earlier age and have a heightened vulnerability to heart disease, partly due to a greater prevalence of obesity and diabetes in these populations. Moreover, restricted access to healthcare providers, nutritious foods, and safe living conditions can further hinder some individuals from maintaining good health.

“Not everyone is able to rush to the emergency room and manage the expenses — financial burdens can deter patients from seeking preventive care, leading to untreated ailments and undiagnosed conditions,” remarked Ou.

Healthy Lifestyle And Preventive Measures

Sound habits serve as your best defense against experiencing a heart attack. By engaging in regular exercise, consuming a nutritious diet, ensuring adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco usage, you can decrease various risk factors associated with heart disease. Those with excess body weight have a heightened risk of developing heart disease and stroke, even in the absence of other health issues. Consult your healthcare provider to maintain your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar within healthy limits.

“Medical issues such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and obesity can also contribute to arterial blockages in your heart. However, maintaining a healthy weight plays a crucial role in managing these conditions,” Ou stated.

While physical health is crucial for cardiac well-being, attending to your mental health is equally important. Chronic stress can impact both mental and physical health, potentially elevating blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart attacks. Ou emphasizes that emotional wellness and heart health start with obtaining sufficient sleep, a well-rounded diet, and regular exercise.

Ou and Middleton emphasize the importance of making health a priority and recognizing when your body requires attention. Heeding its signals and seeking medical aid when necessary are vital steps. Although certain heart attacks may be associated with medical or family histories, embracing a healthy and balanced lifestyle is essential in managing heart health.

The post Understand Your Heart Attack Risks And How To Mitigate Them first appeared on Texas A&M Today.