Heart disease remains the world’s leading cause of death, but many heart attacks can be prevented. On World Heart Day, Dr Rajesh Vijayvergiya of PGI’s Advanced Cardiac Centre tells Shimona Kanwar why knowing your numbers, acting on warning signs and making healthier lifestyle choices can save livesSPOT THE WARNING SIGNSHeart disease may strike suddenly, but the body often sends signals firstWatch out for:Chest pressure, heaviness, squeezing or burningPain spreading to arm, shoulder, back, neck or jawUnusual breathlessnessExcessive sweatingDizziness or palpitationsExtreme fatigueSudden drop in exercise capacityDon’t ignore it: Recurrent or exertion-related symptoms should not be dismissed as “gas” or acidityYOUNG & FIT? YOU’RE NOT IMMUNEBeing young, slim or a regular gym-goer does not eliminate heart riskMajor risk factorsTobacco useDiabetesHigh blood pressureHigh cholesterolObesityFamily history of heart diseaseStressUndiagnosed heart conditionsExercise helps, but: People with symptoms or risk factors should seek medical advice before taking up intense workoutsKNOW YOUR NUMBERSMany heart-related conditions remain symptomless for yearsGet these checked regularlyBlood pressureBlood sugarCholesterolBody weightDoctors say cardiac tests should be based on an individual’s risk profile, not on generic screening packagesTHE HEART-PROTECTION FORMULAMove More: Walk or exercise regularly on most daysEat Smart: Choose fruits, vegetables, pulses and whole grains. Cut down on salt, sugar and unhealthy fatsQuit Tobacco: Avoid all forms of tobacco and seek help if neededTake Medicines Regularly: Do not stop treatment for BP, diabetes or cholesterol simply because you feel wellSleep & Stress Matter: Maintain a healthy weight, sleep adequately and manage stress through exercise, yoga, meditation or social supportDON’T SELF-MEDICATEAvoid starting aspirin, statins or other cardiac medicines without a doctor’s adviceTHE BIG MESSAGEWhile modern cardiology offers stents, pacemakers and advanced procedures, prevention remains the most powerful treatmentQUOTEThe greatest success in cardiology is the heart attack that never happensDr Rajesh VijayvergiyaDepartment of Cardiology, Advanced Cardiac Centre, PGI
