Are you tough enough to prevent the pain of heart attack?
More than a million heart attacks occur in the U.S. each year. Fortunately, it is now easier to survive one, thanks to medical advances. But wouldn’t you rather avoid the trauma, disability, hospital confinement and risk of death caused by heart trouble?
You may avoid critical illness from heart disease with these important measures . . .
ONE: Adopt basic health habits.
The key is committing yourself to 3 critical changes: Exercise regularly, eat a healthful diet and, if you use it, kick tobacco. The first 2 will help control weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels – all major factors for heart disease. And quitting tobacco should quickly lower your odds of early heart attack.
Making heart-healthy choices may not be easy in a culture dominated by fast food and sedentary pursuits. But suffering a heart attack is harder.
TWO: Know your personal risks.
Health care providers have made progress in screening, diagnosing and treating heart disease. They can quickly predict with simple tests who is at risk of having a heart attack in the next 10 years.
Work with your provider to prevent serious problems. You may be due for a heart checkup if you have reached age 40, smoke, are overweight or have a family history of early cardiovascular problems.
Medications can help treat the leading indicators for heart attack – diabetes and elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Minor changes, such as adding exercise and eating a balanced diet, can prevent or significantly delay heart trouble.