Is your heart at risk? Watch out for fatigue, chest pain and other signs of unhealthy heart

Heart attack causes: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can include activities like walking, cycling, or swimming (Image: Canva)

Sedentary lifestyles and poor diets, high in processed foods and saturated fats, contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular strain. Says Dr V. Rajasekhar, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiology & Electrophysiology, Certified Proctor For TAVR & Clinical Director, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, "Increases  stress levels have become a common part of  modern life. These also  negatively impact heart health by raising blood pressure and promoting unhealthy coping behaviours like smoking and overeating."

He adds, "The symptoms of an unhealthy heart include chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation. Shortness of breath, particularly when engaging in minimal exertion, may signal potential heart issues. Additionally, irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias, alongside persistent fatigue despite adequate rest, can serve as warning signs. Moreover, swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen might also indicate heart failure, requiring prompt medical evaluation and intervention to reduce the potential risks and ensure a good cardiac health."

Dr Rajasekhar shares effective strategies to maintain a healthy heart:

Watch your plate: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.

Break a sweat: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can include activities like walking, cycling, or swimming.

Trim the fat: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of heart disease. Aim to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise.

Avoid stress: Chronic stress can contribute to heart problems. Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature.

Make that appointment: Visit your doctor regularly for check-ups and screenings. This can help catch any potential heart issues early on.

Butt out, drink less: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage your heart and blood vessels. If you smoke, consider quitting, and limit alcohol intake to moderate levels.

Monitor Your blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are major risk factors for heart disease. Have these levels checked regularly and take steps to keep them within a healthy range.