7 Things That Are Major Risk Factors For A Heart Attack
Heart attacks, strokes or other conditions might appear to occur without rhyme or reason, but, there are actually some major factors which impact them. A person’s health, habits and even their weight can make them more susceptible to getting one. The following are some major risk factors for a heart attack which you should be aware of.
1. High Blood Pressure
When a person’s experiencing high blood pressure, their heart is working overtime to keep pumping blood to other areas of the body. This additional activity is more likely to strain the arteries of the heart, increasing the chances of causing the heart valves to collapse or experience some other injury. Your arteries are also more likely to clog or collapse.
2. Extra Weight
Being overweight or being obese increases your risk of experiencing a heart attack. During both conditions, you are more likely to experience high cholesterol levels which clog the artery. The heart is also strained to pump blood to the body, and the additional weight can make the heart’s job tougher. Strokes, heart attacks and more are common for obese or overweight people.
3. Poor Diets
Diets that are high in salts, fats, sugar, unhealthy carbs and more are more likely to cause heart attacks in people. Healthy, balanced diets are necessary to maintain heart health. Most balanced diets also contain essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals which are needed to keep your heart healthy and in good condition. The more junk food you eat, the unhealthier it is for you.
4. Lack of Physical Activity
Low or no physical activity can also increase your risk of experiencing a heart attack, along with other afflictions. It’s a good idea to ensure that you get a minimum of 2.5 hours per week of exercise. Whether it’s taking the dog for a walk, riding your bicycle or even indulging in some backyard gardening, all these are physical activities which can be good for you and your heart.
5. High Blood Sugar Levels
High levels of blood sugar can make one more likely to develop diabetes and suffer from a heart attack. There’s a correlation between diabetes and heart attacks and both are among the top 5 dangerous conditions that cause global deaths each year. Monitor your sugar levels and keep them at manageable levels.
6. High Stress
The stress levels you experience also add to the chances of getting a heart attack or a stroke. It’s a good idea to practice mindfulness, meditation and yoga to help bring down stress. Indulge in calming hobbies that lower stress and improve your health such as knitting or gardening.
7. Family Health History
If you have a family history of poor heart health, you may be genetically predisposed to getting a heart attack or developing a heart condition. Unfortunately, many heart conditions and cardiac disorders are hereditary. The good news here is that by improving your quality of life and practicing good habits, you can reduce your risk to it greatly.
By understanding the major risk factors for heart disease or heart attack, you can look after yourself more and adopt healthier habits.