Despite being one of the leading causes of death, people, knowingly and unknowingly, still indulge in habits that can dramatically increase their risk of heart problems. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Rajnish Sardana, Additional Director-Cardiology and Electrophysiology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, discusses the most common mistakes people make that can ruin heart health.
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Heart-Related Issues To Note
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1.79 crore people died from Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) in 2019, representing 32% of all global deaths, of which, 85% were due to heart attack and stroke. Some of the common heart problems that people may experience include:
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Coronary artery disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common heart problem and occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup.
Heart failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It can result from various conditions, including CAD, high blood pressure, heart valve disease, or a previous heart attack.
Arrhythmias
Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Common types of arrhythmias include atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and bradycardia.
Hypertension
High blood pressure is a condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this can lead to various heart problems, such as CAD, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
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Congenital heart defects
Congenital heart defects are structural problems present at birth that affect the heart's normal functioning. These defects can range from simple conditions with no symptoms to complex, life-threatening abnormalities.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle, where the muscle becomes weakened, enlarged, or stiffened. This affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively and can lead to heart failure or arrhythmias.
Common Mistakes That Increase The Risk Of Heart Problems
“Maintaining a healthy heart is crucial for overall well-being. However, there are several common mistakes that people often make, unknowingly putting their heart health at risk,” said Dr Sardana. “By understanding these pitfalls and making necessary lifestyle changes, you can take proactive steps to preserve your heart health and reduce cardiovascular disease risk,” he added. Some of the common mistakes people make include:
Smoking
It is a well-known and widely recognised health hazard that poses serious risks to the heart and overall health. The detrimental effects of smoking on the cardiovascular system have been extensively studied and documented, according to the doctor.
The absence of exercise
Inactivity can have detrimental effects on heart health. Without regular physical activity, the heart may become weaker and less efficient in pumping blood throughout the body. Dr Sardana said, “A sedentary lifestyle can have detrimental effects on our cardiovascular system and overall well-being. Understanding the potential risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle and taking proactive steps to mitigate them is crucial.”
Excessive or chronic stress
Stress can lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems. When under stress, the body releases hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, Dr Sardana explained. Over time, these physiological responses can contribute to the development of conditions like hypertension and heart disease.
Bottomline
Maintaining heart health requires a comprehensive approach. Firstly, adopting a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential. This promotes adequate nutrition while minimising the intake of saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Secondly, regular physical activity is crucial for heart health. Additionally, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are vital steps in maintaining a healthy heart.