Cardiovascular disease kills 17.9 million people each year, or 31% of all deaths worldwide. Smoking, unhealthy eating, physical inactivity and the harmful use of alcohol are the causes of these diseases, which are mainly manifested by heart attacks and strokes. Some heart attacks strike suddenly, but many people have symptoms hours, days or weeks in advance.
The most common problem with heart disease is coronary artery disease. This is usual for both genders and can be found in men more than in women.
Main reasons for a heart attack
A heart attack occurs when the flow of blood to the heart is blocked. The blockage is most often an accumulation of fat, cholesterol and other substances that form a plaque in the arteries that supply the heart (coronary arteries). The plate eventually breaks off and forms a clot. Interrupted blood flow can damage or destroy part of the heart muscle.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that high cholesterol, smoking and high blood pressure are the main causes of heart attacks. In addition, overweight, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption and diabetes can contribute to a heart attack.
The chances of survival
Early detection of symptoms is essential for surviving a heart attack. In fact, half of heart attacks occur outside of a hospital, which is why you must be able to recognize the symptoms. According to figures from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 92% of their patients felt chest discomfort, but only 27% of them understood it to be a symptom of a heart attack and called emergency room.
The most common signs of a heart attack
Not everyone with a heart attack has the same symptoms or the same severity of symptoms. Some people have mild pain, others have more pain. Here are the most common symptoms of a heart attack as detailed by the World Health Organization:
1. Swelling in the joints including the legs, ankles and feet.
2. Shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. When heart functions deteriorate, the lungs do not get the oxygen they need.
3. Vertigo. If the work of the heart is compromised, the blood circulation will be reduced and this will cause a lack of oxygen in the blood which causes vertigo.
4. Constant coughing especially when the mucus is whitish or pinkish, it can mean a leak of blood.
5. Fatigue. When the arteries close, the heart begins to work harder and, in this way, simple tasks can be difficult and exhausting.
6. Pains in the chest. Discomfort in the chest means narrowing, pressure or burning. It is actually the most common symptom and can occur during physical activity or at rest.
How to help prevent heart disease?
Choose a healthy diet. Choose foods that are low in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium. As part of a healthy diet, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains rich in fiber, fish (preferably oily fish, at least twice a week), nuts, legumes and seeds. try to eat meals without meat. Choose low fat poultry. Limit sugary drinks and red meat. Eliminate alcohol and cigarettes from your daily life.
Be physically active. You can do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity (a brisk walk) each week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity (running) or a combination of both each week. In addition, every 2 or 3 days a week, you need muscle building activities that affect all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, shoulders and arms).
If you think you have a heart attack, do not hesitate to call for emergency medical help. Share to inform your loved ones!
