Symptoms of heart disease: Reduce cholesterol level, control blood pressure to keep heart healthy

Symptoms of heart issues may include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, fainting, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen

Your heart is important for your well-being. Waking with a tightness in your chest, feeling short of breath and unusually fatigued as you start your day, are subtle but concerning symptoms that may often indicate an unhealthy heart.

Heart disease includes various conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and heart failure. Factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and smoking significantly increase the risk of developing heart disease.

Heart disease affects both men and women, but men face a higher risk, especially after the age of 45, while women become more vulnerable after menopause, according to Dr Lakshmi Navya Cheekatla, Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada. "In India, heart failure and coronary artery disease are leading causes of death, but they are largely preventable," she emphasises.

Understanding the warning signs of heart issues can be lifesaving. Symptoms may include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, fainting, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen. “It's vital to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any of these symptoms, as early intervention can prevent serious complications,” adds Dr Cheekatla.

Here are 6 ways to manage risk factors of heart disease:

Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids can help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Move your body, more: Engage in aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Control blood pressure: Monitor your blood pressure regularly and consult and seek help from your doctor to manage hypertension through lifestyle changes and medication if necessary. High blood pressure strains the heart and increases the risk of heart disease.

Manage cholesterol levels: Maintain healthy cholesterol levels by limiting saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol in your diet. Consider medications prescribed by your doctor if lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to control cholesterol levels.

Quit smoking: Smoking significantly raises the risk of heart disease. Quitting smoking reduces this risk and improves your cardiovascular health.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease risk. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or hobbies that promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.