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Heart attack, or an acute myocardial infarction, is a serious condition that occurs when the flow of blood to the heart muscle is unexpectedly cut off due to a blood clot or blockage in the arteries, which can happen because of fatty deposits or sudden rupture of plaques. While myocardial infarction is commonly associated with the elderly, it has become increasingly common in people under the age of 40 in recent years.
As per several studies, one out of every five heart attack patients nowadays is under the age of 40. Furthermore, the number of heart attacks among people in their early 30s or early 20s has increased dramatically in recent years. Studies have revealed that between 2000 and 2016, the prevalence of heart attacks in individuals in their 20s and 30s has increased by 2% every year. Similarly, heart attacks are also being well treated by the best cardiac specialist in Vijayawada.
What is Causing Heart Attacks in Young People?
Some of the major factors augmenting the risk of heart attack in younger individuals are:
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Diabetes
With the growing adoption of sedentary lifestyles and increasing consumption of foods high in sugar, the prevalence of diabetes is surging in young individuals. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Atlas, 9th edition, type 1 diabetes affects around 1.1 million people below the age of 20. This increases the risk of heart attacks, which experts say are 2-4 times higher in people with diabetes. Moreover, people with diabetes are also more vulnerable to chronic health disorders, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure, that increase the risk of heart attacks.
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Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, harms blood vessels and causes thickening of heart muscles by making them work harder. In addition, high blood pressure causes the narrowing of arteries, thereby leading to coronary artery diseases. Over a certain period of time, the increased strain on the heart caused by high blood pressure can lead to heart failure.
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Obesity
Obesity significantly increases the risk of a heart attack, as carrying extra weight increases the burden on the heart. Moreover, people who are obese generally have various other health conditions that negatively impact their heart health, such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
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Cigarette Smoking
Smoking is a major cause of heart attacks and causes one of every four deaths from a cardiovascular disease, as it can:
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Increase triglycerides - a type of fat found in the blood.
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Reduce good cholesterol HDL level.
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Increase the likelihood of blood clotting, which can lead to blockages in the flow of blood to the heart and brain.
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Accelerate the build-up of plaque such as cholesterol, fat, calcium and other substances in the blood vessels.
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Cause the narrowing and thickening of blood vessels.
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Substance Abuse
While experts are still studying the effects of marijuana on the heart, the impact of cocaine on the heart is well-established. Cocaine increases the heart rate, raises blood pressure and tightens the blood vessels, which, in turn, augments the risk of a heart attack.
One is required to avoid the the risks mentioned, or even people might get heart attack treatment in Vijayawada.
How to Lower the Prevalence of Heart Attacks in Young People?
Lifestyle management is the single most effective method for reducing the risk of any heart disease, including a heart attack. Some of the healthy habits that can help people improve their lifestyle and reduce the risk of a heart attack are:
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Consuming a heart-friendly diet and reducing the intake of processed foods.
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Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle and exercising regularly.
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Getting at least 8 hours of sleep every night.
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Reducing the consumption of alcohol and avoiding smoking.
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Going for routine preventive health check-ups.
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Alleviating stress through yoga and other recreational activities.
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Understanding the signs and symptoms of heart diseases.
Consultant - Cardiac Sciences
Manipal Hospitals, Vijayawada
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