Heart attack is one of the most common and dangerous cardiovascular conditions. Did you know heart attacks cause approximately 25,000 to 28,000 deaths in India alone? Globally, this number is even more shocking. Moreover, around 1 in 5 people get admitted to hospitals upon experiencing a second heart attack.
A heart attack occurs when the heart muscles do not get enough blood due to blood clots or blood vessels getting clogged. If you have suffered from a heart attack or know someone who has, this article lists all the preventive measures you can take to stay healthy and lead a happy, productive life.
How can you prevent a second heart attack?
Your lifestyle has a significant impact on your overall health. Changing your lifestyle can help you return to regular activities more quickly, reduce the risk of another heart attack, and set the course for a healthier future.
Quit smoking
Tobacco kills more than 8 million people worldwide and accounts for over a million deaths yearly. A major cause of heart attack, smoking damages blood vessels and causes blood clots, making it difficult for oxygen to reach your heart and other organs. It’s advisable to cut down on smoking and eventually stop, as there are multiple health benefits of not smoking tobacco. It reduces the risk of a second heart attack, regulates blood pressure, and promotes blood circulation.
Track your blood pressure and cholesterol
High blood pressure stresses your blood vessels and the heart. You are recommended to maintain a healthy weight, lower your salt intake and work out regularly to keep your blood pressure in check. Pay attention to the bad cholesterol (LDL) range in your blood test reports. You can control a high LDL and change it into a low LDL by eating a healthy diet and exercising. Do not consume excessive saturated fats, red meat, high dairy products, etc.
Don’t miss your medicines
Do not slack on taking medicines on time. Always stick to the medicine prescribed by your doctor and take the right medicines at the right time, in the right manner. Doctors advise the intake of beta-blockers, statins, anti-coagulants, and more as they reduce the workload on the heart, prevent blood clots and protect your blood vessels. This will help reduce the chances of having a second heart attack.
Make exercise your friend!
You should live an active lifestyle involving moving, walking, running, or any form of exercise or yoga that will benefit your cardio-metabolic health. Adopt any form of physical activity, be it walking, jogging, dancing, or swimming, and follow it regularly. It will lower your blood pressure, strengthen your heart and improve your heart’s health.
Don’t ignore the symptoms!
Symptoms are just your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. You shouldn’t ignore those. Read the signs and get help at the earliest. This way, you can increase your chances of surviving a second heart attack.
The major symptoms of a heart attack are:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Shooting pain in one or both arms or shoulders
• Feeling dizzy
• Excessive fatigue
• Unexplained nausea
Get regular check-ups
Prioritize your health, specifically your heart health. Your doctor might advise you to take regular ECGs, lipid profile tests, and other assessments to know the functioning of your heart.
The way forward…
With the right measures, you can live a healthy and peaceful life even after you have a heart attack. To take care of yourself after a heart attack, monitor your blood pressure levels regularly, maintain a healthy body weight, and limit your stress. With these, you are sure to give your heart health and yourself a second chance at life!
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FAQs
1. What dietary changes can I make to my diet to reduce my chance of a second heart attack?
Include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lentils in your diet plan. Cut down your salt intake. Eat good carbs, such as whole wheat and brown rice, and avoid red meat.
2. I am diabetic. Am I at a higher risk of a heart attack?
Diabetes puts you at a higher risk because of high sugar levels in the blood. It can damage blood vessels and make heart tissue weaker. You should consult a doctor and a nutritionist who will help you keep your health in check.
3. Can you recommend a few safe exercises or physical activities that one can do during their heart attack recovery?
Walking, brisk walking or jogging are a few safe physical activities that you can do for at least 15-20 minutes or up to half an hour. If you feel better and want to increase the duration, consult a doctor.
