subject: How To Prevent A Heart Attack [print this page] Cardiac arrest, or a heart attack, is the top killer of humans in United States of America. As you grow older, the chances of you having a heart attack increase. However, there are methods which can help reduce the risk of a heart attack. Some right steps taken at right time can prevent a heart attack in future. Let us know a little more.
Know the signs and symptoms Few symptoms, if noticed, should be reported straightaway to your doctor. Treatment should be sought immediately if one experiences sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, leg swelling, palpitations, or sudden passing out. A prolonged, unexplained cough or coughing up blood in sputum along with leg swelling and cyanosis are also indicative of unhealthy heart.
There are a few medications which adversely affect the heart health and put you at increased risk of heart attack. Consult your cardiologist or healthcare provider for medicines you should take, avoid, or continue.
Monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis. If found high repeatedly, consult your doctor immediately. In case blood pressure readings fluctuate intermittently, let your doctor know about it. Have your blood pressure medications on a regular basis, religiously. Maintaining your blood pressure within normal limits reduces the risk of heart attack substantially.
Keep a check on your LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. LDL cholesterol is bad for heart, so are triglycerides. These block the arteries and inhibit the blood flow to/from the heart, leading to heart attack. Ideally, LDL cholesterol level should not exceed 70 mg/dL. Total cholesterol should be not more than 200 mg/dL. Consult your doctor immediately for any abnormal cholesterol levels.
Eat a diet that is low in saturated and trans fat. Fat causes your cholesterol levels to increase, putting you at a higher risk of a heart attack. Instead, consume a diet including vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, etc. Reduce salt intake in your diet. Increase fiber intake.
Exercise on a regular basis. Go for general and cardio exercise and chalk out an exercise regime. Follow your exercising regime religiously. Exercising improves the blood flow and keeps your heart and body in healthy state.
Stop smoking, cut down on alcohol, and do not consume any tobacco products. Quitting smoking and alcohol along with other tobacco products straightaway reduces the risk of any heart disease.Read more about Prevent Heart Attack.
