The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list heart disease as the leading cause of death for both genders in the U.S. To protect yourself from potentially damaging or even fatal effects of a heart attack, the following controllable risk factors should be addressed:
- Smoking – Smoking significantly increases the chances of developing heart disease or sudden cardiac death. In addition, smokers’ heart disease risk is more than twice that of non-smokers. Quit smoking and reduce the risk of dying from heart disease.
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol – Both increase the workload placed on your heart. If you have either one of these, be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
- Weight – Maintain a healthy body weight through regular exercise. Both obesity and sedentary lifestyles can increase your risk since they cause the heart to work more than normal.
- Diabetes – Lower your heart disease and stroke risk by controlling your blood sugar.
- Lack of physical activity – It’s shown that people who exercise regularly have better cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and decrease their risk of a heart attack.
- Stress – Find ways to manage your stress. This may include things like exercise and meditation. Avoid using alcohol as a relief tool, as too much alcohol can lead to heart failure.
Follow these steps, and decrease your chances of a heart attack. If you are a male over 65, or have a parent with heart disease, your risk for a heart attack is greater. This risk can be reduced by following the recommendations outlined above.
While not all heart attacks can be fully prevented, the earlier you seek medical attention, the better your chances of recovery. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Persistent pressure or pain in the center of your chest
- Pain that originates in your chest and extends to your arm or back, especially the left side
- Upper abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Impending sense of doom
- Light-headedness or fainting
- Nausea and vomiting
For men, the most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are more likely to experience some other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Learn the signs! Remember, even if you’re unsure, have it checked out (tell the doctor your symptoms). The faster the action, the greater the chance of survival. Don’t wait to call 9-1-1.
Many heart attack sufferers are surprised to learn that physical therapy can play an important role in recovery. Our physical therapists can provide advice and design a heart-healthy exercise program. Exercise is an important part of healing, and physical therapy can only contribute to positive well-being. It is the safest way to work yourself back into your regularly scheduled activities gradually.