Heart attack: Recognize signs and risks early

In case of stabbing or oppressive pain in the chest area, which often radiates into the left arm and lower jaw, quick action is required. The suspicion of a Heart attack It is obvious that an emergency doctor must be called immediately.

"These are the typical heart attack symptoms in men. In women, however, the heart attack sometimes manifests itself differently. Pain in the upper abdomen and sudden nausea and vomiting initially make one think of a digestive disorder. But if symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, shortness of breath and feelings of anxiety occur, the affected person has probably suffered a heart attack. In any case, the ambulance should be called immediately. This is because women in particular are often treated too late or not at all. The time lost until effective treatment begins in the clinic in turn worsens the prognosis," explains Dr. Reinhold Lunow, internist and medical director of the practice clinic Bornheim near Cologne and Bonn.

While men used to be more likely to suffer a heart attack, today almost as many women die from it. Cardiovascular diseases, especially heart attacks, are now the main cause of death in Germany, especially among women after the menopause.

 
Regular vascular check is important

The risk factors for a heart attack are numerous and complex. In order to be able to recognize possible dangers early, an annual heart and vascular health check with a specialist advisable. He can check the patient's blood lipid levels and use modern imaging techniques (including color Doppler sonography) to determine whether the permeability of the coronary arteries is impaired. The cause of so-called arteriosclerotic vascular changes, in which the elasticity and thus the permeability of the arteries is reduced, can be a one-sided, diet that is too high in fat and cholesterol Most of these potential risk patients are overweight, and many also suffer from vascular-damaging Hypertension and / or Diabetes.

But even slim people can have an increased risk of heart attack and stroke due to hereditary high cholesterol levels. Stroke “It is important to recognise these potential risks early on. Then the patient can, for example, by changing the Nutrition and a more active lifestyle or, if necessary, medication, can actively prevent a possible heart attack," emphasizes Dr. Lunow.

 
Relaxation exercises such as yoga protect against heart attacks

Excellent prevention: living a "heart-healthy" life

A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack. A balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding excess weight and not smoking are important factors.

“However, Sports should be done in moderation, and overexertion of the body should be avoided. Beginners or those returning to sport should best undergo a fitness check with a specialist and have their body tested to see how resilient it is. Depending on the test results, the Doctor then advise which sport and which training frequency are particularly suitable for the patient," advises the internist.

Another aspect of preventing cardiovascular disease is avoiding constant stress. Good stress management and conscious relaxation have a positive effect on the health of the cardiovascular system. "So be mindful of yourself! For this purpose, the Bornheim practice clinic offers individual yoga courses, for example, in which you can learn what is good for your mind and your body in an exercise program tailored to your individual needs," recommends Dr. Lunow.

Provided by: Monks doctors online