On World Heart Health Day, the warning is to identify the signs of the disease and seek help as soon as possible! According to a survey by the National Institute of Cardiology (INC), between 2008 and 2022, the number of hospitalizations for heart attacks increased in Brazil. Among men, the monthly average was […]
On World Heart Health Day, the warning is to identify the signs of the disease and seek help as soon as possible!
According to a survey by the National Institute of Cardiology (INC), between 2008 and 2022, the number of hospitalizations for heart attacks increased in Brazil. Among men, the monthly average went from 5,282 to 13,645, an increase of 158%. Among women the average went from 1,930 to 4,973, an increase of 157%.
Cardiovascular diseases represent approximately 30% of the number of deaths in Brazil and, within this statistic, heart attack is one of the main causes of death, both in women and men, however the symptoms tend to be very different depending on depending on the condition. sex.
Coronary health of men and women
These differences start with how coronary arteries tend to block. Men develop blockages mainly in larger arteries or major vessels, while in women the problem usually occurs in smaller arteries.
Another important thing for women is to find out if they have high blood pressure, one of the risk factors for heart attack. To reduce your chances of having a heart attack, in addition to pursuing a healthy lifestyle, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms to seek help quickly if necessary.
THE Abbottglobal healthcare company, highlights some symptoms that should not be ignored:
- Uncomfortable pressure in the chest (angina), feeling of tightness, pressure, or fullness, signs that usually last more than a few minutes or are intermittent;
- Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach;
- Unexplained shortness of breath;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Dizziness;
- Cold sweat;
- Pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen;
- Extreme fatigue.
silent heart attack
The person may not even have any symptoms, due to blockage of the heart vessels. A silent heart attack is usually detected only after an electrocardiogram. This type of heart attack is more likely to occur in women and people with diabetes.
A correct diagnosis of a heart attack can not only allow for better treatment at the time of the heart attack, but also help you make lifestyle changes that will reduce the likelihood of future cardiac events.
Heart attack prevention
The best way to avoid a heart attack is to take healthy steps towards prevention. The Brazilian Society of Cardiology (SBC) states that several preventive measures can be taken, some of which are listed below:
- Stop smoking – Smoking is the leading preventable cause of disease and premature death in the world;
- Start doing physical activity – A sedentary lifestyle causes diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, increased cholesterol and stress, all linked to an increased heart risk. However, before starting, the patient is advised to consult a doctor. Something as simple as a 30-minute walk every day can benefit heart health;
- Make changes in your diet: This will help you manage your bad cholesterol (LDL) and good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Talk to your doctor;
- Discuss with your doctor the risk factors that apply to you: this way you can implement the changes he recommends.
For women, a heart attack is a very serious concern, however the decisive factor is how each woman takes care of her physical and mental health.
Attention
If you, or a loved one, is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it is important to first call emergency services on 192, before or during hospitalisation, as this action can assist first aid. necessary to save a life. When you call, report your symptoms and follow the instructions. This can dramatically increase your chances of survival.
Sources:
- Empresa Brasil Comunicação – Agência Brasil – Hospitalizations for heart attacks increase by more than 150% in Brazil. Accessed February/24. Available at https://agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br/saude/noticia/2023-07/internacoes-por-infarto-aumentam-mais-de-150-no-brasil
- Brazilian Society of Cardiology – September 29: World Heart Day. Accessed February/24. Available at https://www.portal.cardiol.br/post/29-de-setembro-dia-mundial-do-cora%C3%A7%C3%A3o
- American Heart Association – Angina in women may be different than in men. Accessed February/24. Available at https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/angina-in-women-can-be-different-than-men
- World Health Organization – Cardiovascular diseases. Accessed February/24. Available at https://www.paho.org/pt/topicos/doencas-vascular
- American Heart Association – Heart attack symptoms in women. Accessed February/24. Available at https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack/heart-attack-symptoms-in-women
- Brazilian Society of Cardiology – Cardiometer – How to avoid it. Accessed February/24. Available at http://www.cardiometro.com.br/evitar.asp
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
