Few people know the warning signs of a heart attack

Heart Attack Warning Signs Few People Recognize 

In the UK, a patient is admitted to the hospital every five minutes due to a heart attack, and similarly, in the United States, about one million people are hospitalized each year due to heart attacks. However, less than half of the British population is aware of the important symptoms that warn of a heart attack. 

Few People know the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack💔

Dr. Shah has warned that chest pain and difficulty breathing are well-known symptoms of a heart attack, but it is crucial for people to be aware of other important symptoms, most of which are not widely recognized, such as changes in eye color and swollen legs. One very unusual symptom, called Digital Clubbing, involves the thickening and widening of the fingernails. 

This occurs because oxygen-rich blood cannot reach the fingertips, causing an increase in the production of a substance that accelerates the growth rate of nail tissue. Another symptom that people are less familiar with is the development of a brown ring around the iris (the colored part) of the eye. About 45% of people over the age of 40 show this brown ring around their iris, and this feature is prominent in about 70% of people over the age of 60. 

Its presence indicates that the person may have coronary artery disease, as it suggests that their blood cholesterol level is very high. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that narrows or blocks blood vessels. Dr. Bhavani Shah, who works as a physician at Lloyd Pharmacy, has warned people to keep an eye on swelling in their legs, known medically as "Oedema." 

Swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues, and the reason for fluid buildup in the legs is that the heart has become weakened and is no longer able to pump blood effectively throughout the body, leading to fluid accumulation in the veins and tissues of the legs and feet. However, less than half, or 46%, of British people are unaware that this is a symptom of heart disease. 

This was revealed in a survey of 500 British residents conducted by Lloyd Pharmacy. According to official statistics, around 2 million people in the UK are diagnosed with some form of heart disease every year, while charitable organizations estimate that an additional 6 million people suffer from undiagnosed high blood pressure, which is one of the dangerous risk factors for strokes and heart attacks. 

Heart disease includes many medical conditions that affect not only the heart but also the blood vessels. One cause of heart disease is the fatty substances that accumulate in the arteries, obstructing the effective flow of blood to or from the heart. This blockage increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks. 

Dr. Shah explained that chest pain, accompanied by a feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness, could be a symptom of a heart attack, and in such cases, it is essential for the patient to be taken immediately to the hospital emergency room.  This symptom is widely recognized and well-known, with a survey showing that 83% of people were aware of this crucial warning sign. 

Difficulty breathing is also a common symptom of a heart attack, with 77% of people reporting awareness of it. Dr. Shah explained that if the heart is not pumping an adequate amount of blood throughout the body, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, which can cause difficulty breathing. 

An irregular heartbeat can also be a sign of heart disease, with 70% of people aware of it. While it is not always linked to a serious condition, it is still important to check for any underlying issues. Extreme fatigue, where performing everyday tasks becomes difficult or feeling tired after minimal exercise, is also a concerning sign. 

Dr. Shah emphasized that we can protect ourselves from this disease by making changes in our lifestyle. One important change is to reduce or eliminate fatty foods, as this will lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

According to NHS recommendations, we should eat foods high in fiber and low in fat, include at least five servings of fruits and vegetables in our diet, and prioritize whole grains. Salt intake should not exceed 6 grams per day, and trans fats should be avoided as they raise cholesterol levels. 

The British Heart Foundation states that living an active lifestyle can reduce the risk of heart disease by 35%.  Dr. Shah suggests walking, cycling, swimming, or going to the gym to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking also reduces the risk of heart disease. 

Symptoms of heart disease include: 

• Chest pain 
• Shortness of breath 
• Extreme fatigue 
• Irregular heartbeat 
• Swelling of the legs 

How to Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease 

Maintain a Healthy Diet 

Adopting a balanced diet is a key strategy in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, as well as managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 

Stay Physically Active 

Dr. Shah highlights the importance of regular physical activity in preventing heart disease. According to the British Heart Foundation, staying active can reduce the risk by as much as 35%. Exercise helps to regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. It’s recommended to aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Whether it's walking briskly, cycling, swimming, or attending a fitness class, choosing activities you enjoy can help you maintain a heart-healthy routine. Quitting smoking is another essential lifestyle change.

Quit Smoking 

According to the charity Action on Smoking and Health, smoking harms the inner lining of the arteries, including those supplying the heart. A toxic substance called acrolein interferes with the body’s cholesterol processing, leading to higher cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Limit Alcohol Consumption 

Reducing alcohol intake is another effective way to protect your heart. NHS guidelines advise both men and women to consume no more than 14 units of alcohol per week. These units should be spread over at least three days and not consumed all at once. There is a well-established connection between excessive drinking and high blood pressure. Consistently exceeding the 14-unit limit over several years can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Get Sufficient Sleep 

Quality sleep is vital for heart health. Inadequate sleep may raise the risk of developing heart disease. 

Adults typically need between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Infants, children, and teenagers generally require between eight and 16 hours. Making small, consistent changes to your sleep habits can have a meaningful impact on your overall heart health.