First signs of heart problems
It’s important to see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, as they could be warning signs of a potential heart problem. But often people tend to confuse these signs with something insignificant. Dr. Panda shares some signs that shouldn’t be taken lightly and are worth investigating.
Chest pain, tightness, pressure or discomfort (angina pectoris):
If you experience chest discomfort or pain on exertion, whether mild or severe, it is crucial to have it checked out by a medical professional.Shortness of breath:
If you have trouble catching your breath, especially during physical activity or even at rest, this could be a sign of a heart problem and should not be ignored.
Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen or back:
Unexplained pain or discomfort in these areas, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, may indicate a heart problem and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Pain or numbness in the arms during physical or mental stress:
If you experience unusual pain, discomfort or numbness in your arms, especially during times of physical or mental stress, it is essential to have it checked out as it could be a sign of heart problems.
Heart healthy habits
Remember that prevention is key when it comes to heart health. By adopting heart-healthy habits and being proactive in managing risk factors, you can reduce your risk of heart disease.
Get active: Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week, can help keep your heart in shape.
Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and other health problems. If you’re a smoker, it’s time to quit for the sake of your heart and your overall well-being.
Keep your cholesterol under control: High cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Opt for foods low in salt and unhealthy fats to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Adjust your eating habits: You don’t have to be a perfect eater, but try to avoid junk food and prioritize healthy, nutritious meals, with more fruits, vegetables, and other high-fat foods. fibers.
Reduce stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure, which can contribute to heart disease. Find healthy ways to deal with stress, such as exercising, meditating, doing yoga, or talking to a trusted friend or family member.
Prioritize sleep: Good sleep is crucial for a healthy heart. Aim for 8 hours of quality sleep each night and sleep before 10 p.m. to support your heart health.
Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping your body mass index (BMI) in a healthy range can help prevent conditions like diabetes, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Start heart exams early: People should start getting screened for heart disease as early as age 20, including checking cholesterol levels, blood pressure and diabetes, to catch any potential risk factors early.
The link between diabetes and heart problems
Diabetes is a significant risk factor for heart disease and, unfortunately, it is twice as common in people with diabetes as in those without. This includes conditions such as coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease, which can have serious implications for heart health, Dr. Panda says.
He further adds, “High blood sugar over time damages the blood vessels and nerves that control your heart. This means that someone with diabetes may not experience the typical chest pain that prompts them to seek medical attention. This delay in seeing a doctor quickly can increase the risk of complications such as silent heart attacks, heart failure, and cardiac arrest.
People with diabetes are also more likely to have other conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol (LDL), and high triglycerides that damage heart arteries and cause plaque (blockage) to build up. ).
If you have diabetes, it’s crucial to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect your heart. Regular exercise, good sugar control, healthy diet, on-time sleep and 8 hours a day will help you prevent or reduce the risk of heart disease. If you experience chest discomfort when walking or exercising, chest pain accompanied by fatigue or shortness of breath, a resting heart rate over 100 beats per minute, or if you have erectile dysfunction as a young man , it is important to consult a doctor.
