Preventing Sudden Heart Attacks: Identifying Risks and Adopting Lifestyle Changes

Heart attacks are primarily caused by a sudden disruption in the heart’s blood flow. This interruption can damage or kill cardiac muscle tissue, potentially leading to a reduced pumping capacity, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), and even death if not treated promptly.

Typically, a heart attack occurs when a plaque in a coronary artery ruptures, forming a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the heart. This blockage results in damage to the heart muscle.

Sudden cardiac arrest can affect anyone, even those who appear healthy. Dr. Jyoti Kusnur, Consultant Interventional Cardiology at Manipal Hospital, Goa, highlights several risk factors:

• Diabetes Mellitus: A significant cause of premature heart attack deaths, particularly among younger populations in India.
• Lifestyle Factors:
• Smoking: Cigarettes contain toxins that damage blood vessels.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Can alter heart rate, rhythm, and blood lipid levels, increasing heart attack risk.
• High-Fat Diet: Junk foods high in salt and ultra-processed items contribute to heart disease.
• High Cholesterol Levels
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• Being Overweight or Obese
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of exercise exacerbates heart disease risks.

Dr. Kusnur emphasizes that adopting lifestyle changes can significantly reduce cardiac morbidity and mortality. To prevent heart attacks, individuals should:

• Quit Smoking: Eliminate tobacco use to protect heart health.
• Limit Alcohol: Avoid excessive drinking to prevent adverse changes in heart function.
• Improve Diet: Replace junk food with a diet rich in green leafy vegetables, colorful vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and plant-based proteins. Minimize red meat, fried foods, and processed items.
• Increase Physical Activity: Aim for 3-4 kilometers of brisk walking daily (about 45 minutes) and reduce screen time to avoid stress and disrupted sleep patterns.

Additionally, regular health check-ups, including blood sugar tests, lipid profiles, and blood pressure monitoring, are crucial. Cardiac screening can detect blockages and risk factors early, allowing for effective treatment and potentially saving lives.

Dr. Kusnur concludes, “Routine screenings and lifestyle adjustments are key to managing heart health and preventing serious conditions.”