Based on historical records, about 600,000 Americans die each year from acute myocardial infarction. While most people think that a heart disease, and the resulting heart attack, can happen over time, that is not the case. In truth, it could take someone 10 to 15 years for a heart attack to inevitably occur. Unfortunately, although there is quite enough time for people to realize that a heart attack could occur, very few know what signs to watch out for.
Risk Factors for Heart Attack
1. Age
Although heart attack can happen to anyone, one of the factors that could increase such likelihood would be be if you are 45 years and above in age. For women, the age of 55 years and older tend to pose a higher risk. Many medical professionals believe that, it is because, at this age, the body is unable to break down fats. This, in turn, would mean build up of fatty deposits along the walls of the blood vessels.
2. Smoking
Whether it’s tobacco that gives you the thrill or just the simple cigarette, smoking can increase your likelihood of suffering from a heart attack. You have to keep in mind that, when you smoke, the amount of oxygen that reaches your brain as well as the other major organs that you have is greatly reduced. Without the right amount of oxygen, the tissues could die which could lead to organ failure.
3. Diabetes
People with diabetes have a higher chance of suffering from a heart attack compared to those who don’t. Excess sugar in the blood can damage the arteries which could lead to the latter being stiff and prone to more damage should fatty deposits start to build up.
4. Family History of Heart Disease
While heart attack is not something that you inherit from your parents, the risk and predisposition to it is actually something that gets passed down. Aside from this, it can be quite normal for parents to pass down their eating and lifestyle habits to their children. A previous heart attack could also mean that your chances of getting another heart attack is higher especially if you do not make some needed changes.
Now, knowing the risk factors for a heart attack can help you ensure that you keep your risk level to a minimum. In the event that you do experience a heart attack, you have to keep in mind that all is not lost. There are, however, certain changes that you should consider:
1. Lifestyle change
If you are leading a sedentary life, you might to be more active. This does not have to be much. A brisk walk for 30 minutes each day can already help you lower your risk for another heart attack. It could also strengthen your body.
2. Watching what you eat.
Eating right does not mean that you have to punish yourself with bland, tasteless food. It only means that you have to make sure that you take everything into moderation. Ensure also that you do not consume food with high levels of LDL. You should also keep an eye out for the kind of drinks that you have each day.
Living a life after a heart attack would also mean making sure that you have an AED unit on hand. This can prove to be quite handy should you suffer from another heart attack.
