A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart gets blocked. This might happen because of a build-up in artery walls that reduces blood flow. Interrupted blood flow associated with a blockage can damage or destroy part of your heart muscle. This is dangerous and life-threatening in some cases.
Symptoms of a heart attack range in severity from mild to severe. Common signs and symptoms include:
If you suspect your or a loved one is having a heart attack, seek medical attention immediately or call 911.
Knowing the risk factors for a heart attack can aid in heart attack prevention. Common risk factors include:
Complications associated with heart damage include abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure, and even death in some cases. That’s why heart attack prevention is so important.
Common heart attack prevention measures include:
Stress tests allow Dr. Al Kaddoumi to detect heart function irregularities before serious problems occur. He places electrodes on your skin while a monitor records your heart’s activity during physical activity.
Eating healthy foods is one of the best ways to lower your risk of having a heart attack. Limit your sodium, added sugar, and animal fat intake, as well as your consumption of highly processed foods. Increase fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, oils, avocados, and other plant-based foods.
Aim to exercise at least 30 minutes most days of the week or as directed by your doctor. Focus on aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, swimming, biking, rowing, or using an elliptical machine.
If you’re overweight or obese, weight loss significantly reduces your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, properly manage your condition to reduce the risk of a heart attack. In addition to adopting healthy lifestyle habits, take medications to manage a chronic disease if your doctor recommends it.
Don’t take the chance of having a heart attack when heart attack prevention measures are within reach. Call Sam Houston Heart and Vascular, or schedule an appointment online today.