Reduce cholesterol level, keep blood pressure under control, heart will be healthy

Your heart is vital to your health. Waking up with tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, and feeling unusually tired at the start of the day are subtle but worrying symptoms that often indicate an unhealthy heart.

Heart disease includes a variety of conditions that affect the structure and function of the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, and heart failure. Factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and smoking substantially increase the risk of developing heart disease.

According to Dr Lakshmi Navya Cheektala, Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, heart disease affects both men and women, but men are at a higher risk, especially after the age of 45, while women become more vulnerable after menopause. “In India, heart failure and coronary artery disease are the leading causes of death, but these are largely preventable,” she emphasises.

Understanding the warning signs of cardiac problems can be lifesaving. Symptoms can include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, anxiety, dizziness, fainting, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen. “If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical help immediately, as timely intervention can prevent serious complications,” says Dr. Cheektala.

Here are 6 ways to manage heart disease risk factors:

Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat proteins, and healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids can help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Keep your body more mobile: Do Aerobic Exercise Such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming or cycling for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. Physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood circulation and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Control blood pressure: Monitor your blood pressure regularly and consult your doctor to control high blood pressure with lifestyle changes and medication if needed. High blood pressure puts pressure on the heart and increases the risk of heart disease.

Manage cholesterol levels: maintain healthy cholesterol levels By limiting saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol in your diet. If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to control cholesterol levels, consider medications prescribed by your doctor.

Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease. Quitting reduces this risk and improves your cardiovascular health.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or take up hobbies that promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.