The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list heart disease as the leading cause of death for both genders in the U.S. In order to help protect yourself from the potentially damaging, even fatal, effects of a heart attack, the following controllable risk factors should be addressed:
- Smoking – Smoking significantly increases the chances of developing heart disease or sudden cardiac death. In addition, the risk of heart disease for smokers is more than twice that of non-smokers. Quit smoking and reduce the risk of dying from heart disease.
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol – Both increase the workload placed on your heart. If you have either one of these, be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
- Weight – Maintain a healthy body weight through regular exercise. Both obesity and sedentary lifestyles can increase your risk, since they cause the heart to work more than normal.
- Diabetes – Lower your risk of heart disease and stroke by controlling your blood sugar.
- Lack of physical activity – It’s shown that people who exercise regularly have better cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and decrease their risk of heart attack.
- Stress – Find ways to manage your stress. This may include things like exercise and meditation. Avoid using alcohol as a relief tool, as too much alcohol can lead to heart failure.
Follow these steps, and decrease your chances of a heart attack. If you are a male over 65, or have a parent with heart disease, your risk for a heart attack is greater. This risk can be reduced by following the recommendations outlined above.
While not all heart attacks can be fully prevented, the earlier you seek medical attention, the better your chances of recovery. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Persistent pressure or pain in the center of your chest
- Pain that originates in your chest and extends to your arm or back, especially the left side
- Upper abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Impending sense of doom
- Light-headedness or fainting
- Nausea and vomiting
For men, the most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are more likely to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Learn the signs! Remember, even if you’re not sure, have it checked out (tell the doctor your symptoms). The faster the action, the greater the chance of survival. Don’t wait to call 9-1-1.
Many heart attack sufferers are surprised to learn that physical therapy can play a very important role in the recovery process. Our physical therapists can provide advice and design a heart-healthy exercise program. Exercise is an important part of the healing process, and physical therapy can only contribute to a positive well-being. It is the safest way to gradually work yourself back into your regularly scheduled activities.
It’s Time for a Change Of Heart
Now that you’ve learned a few of the controllable risk factors, have you been inspired to make any changes?
No one wants to fall victim to a heart attack that could have been prevented; a heart attack can change your entire life. By staying active and keeping ahead of medical concerns, you can help to create a healthier you.
Although it can be hard to make changes, sometime it is necessary to do so for a healthy heart. If you are a smoker who has tried to quit in the past, try a new method. Remember, your lifestyle choices affect the people you love as well.
Physical Therapy for Your Core
Physical therapists are trained to properly deal with a long list of injuries, conditions and events, such as a heart attack. By seeking the expert guidance of a physical therapist, we can find ways to make life more manageable and speed up healing in a safe manner.
A Word of Caution:
Physical therapy is not just about physical recovery, it’s about finding the right balance for you, along with the proper intensity and duration. An individualized exercise program is the key for people of all ages, as each program is custom-designed for your needs. In fact, those aged 65 and over may greatly benefit from a physical therapy regime to learn a safe, healthy range in which they can exercise for a healthier heart.
As physical therapists, we look at your medical history and physical abilities before developing your specific safe, yet effective, exercise program, including stretching, functional exercises and low-intensity aerobics.
If you or someone you love is living with the effects of a heart attack or other heart condition, call us! We will take care of your heart.
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