A heart attack occurs when the flow of blood to the heart is stopped due to blockage in coronary arteries. It is often caused due to the build-up of fat and cholesterol. According to doctors at AMRI Hospitals, ranked as one of the best hospitals in Kolkata, those with diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol are more at risk of getting a heart attack.
The common symptoms of heart attack include:
- Pressure, chest pain, aching sensation in arms, neck or back
- Indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath and weakness
- Cold sweat, fatigue and dizziness
However, it must be noted that some of these symptoms don’t always indicate a heart attack, although it is important to stay cautious.
Heart attack is a dangerous condition, but it can be controlled to an extent. One can avoid heart attack not only through medication, but by adopting a healthy lifestyle as well. A healthy diet can play a major role in averting the danger of heart attack. Consuming more plant protein, instead of saturated fats and animal protein, can prevent coronary heart disease, which is the major cause of heart attacks. Some of the good sources of plant protein include chickpeas, quinoa, lentils, etc.
Similarly, a healthy lifestyle is necessary to keep the heart healthy. A person should always avoid bad eating habits. A 30-minute workout can help in managing the stress and improve the overall health, reckon medical practitioners at AMRI Hospitals.
Major Risk Factors
Age: The risk of getting a heart attack increases with age. For men, the risk increases after attaining the age of 45 years. While women are more vulnerable to heart attacks after 55 years.
Smoking: It includes both first hand smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke. It is very dangerous, especially for patients suffering from high blood pressure.
Obesity: An obese person is always at risk of getting a heart attack, as he is vulnerable to cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Lack of physical activity: It causes weakness and obesity, thereby increasing the risk of heart attack.
Heart attack can cause several complications. Electric short circuits can develop due to the attack, resulting in abnormal heart rhythms. It can also damage the heart to an extent that the heart muscles can’t pump out enough blood, which may result in heart failure, caution doctors at one of the best hospitals in eastern India. Apart from this, there is always a chance of sudden cardiac arrest in these patients, without any previous symptoms.
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