Dr Naeem Asghar, a Cardiologist from Faisalabad talks about common issues of heart and their solutions
SN: Which heart diseases are common in Pakistan? Also what are their causes?sni
Coronary artery disease (CAD), valvular heart disease and cardiomyopathy are common here. CAD is the narrowing or blockage of arteries which supply blood to heart. It appears as angina or heart attack. Valvular heart disease occurs when heart valves are damaged or diseased. Cardiomyopathy is the problem of heart muscles which makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood.sni
Factors contributing towards high incidence of cardiovascular diseases include excessive alcohol consumption, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, inactive lifestyle, stress and unhealthy eating habits. Controlling these will eventually reduce the risk of heart diseases.sni
SN: How do fats damage heart?sni
Healthy fats are an important source of energy. But excessive use of unhealthy fats obtained from animal sources like meat, poultry skin, high-fat dairy and eggs, and vegetable fats that are liquid at room temperature like coconut and palm oils can block arteries and cause heart attack.sni
SN: How does smoking affect heart health?sni
Chemicals in cigarette smoke can thicken blood and cause buildup of plaque (sticky substance) inside arteries. This obstructs the movement of blood through blood vessels. Thus lead to blood clot formation and ultimately heart attack, stroke or death.sni
SN: Can stress also contribute?sni
Yes. Stress can raise blood pressure and thus the possibility of heart attack. Whereas happiness has a positive impact on mental and physical health. So try to stay relaxed.sni
Heart problems can worsen with diabetes. Diabetics also have higher risk of coronary artery disease as high blood glucose damages blood vessels and nerves that control heart
SN: How are obesity and heart diseases related?sni
Obesity is a major health concern. Obese individuals possess high cholesterol levels which can cause narrowing of blood vessels. Other health issues related to it are high blood pressure and diabetes which eventually lead to cardiovascular problems. To prevent this one must maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and active lifestyle.sni
SN: Exercise can help reduce weight. Does it affect heart too?sni
Cardiovascular exercises like jogging and brisk walk etcetera can improve heart muscles, heartbeat, blood flow to arteries and metabolism. However, one must consult the doctor and take exercise tolerance test before starting any physical activity. This test will identify any obstruction in blood vessels and allow the doctor to suggest specific type of exercise suitable for the patient. Exercising regularly at least five times a week for 30 minutes can give better results.sni
SN: How does diabetes increase the risk of heart disease?sni
Both are closely related. Heart problems can worsen with diabetes. Diabetics also have higher risk of coronary artery disease as high blood glucose damages blood vessels and nerves that control heart. An individual with both problems may experience heart attack without chest pain. To prevent this, keep an eye on blood sugar level, regulate blood pressure and stay in touch with your doctor.sni
SN: Why is red meat not good for heart patients?sni
Heart patients are not allowed to eat red meat mainly due to two reasons. One being the high amount of salt in meat which can raise blood pressure and other is the high fat content that can increase bad (LDL) cholesterol. If avoiding meat seems difficult, consume it in a balanced quantity.sni
Also, on special occasions like Eid-ul-Adha, to prevent overeating of meat, one should make a full week plan that includes vegetables and lentils too.sni
Chances of heart attack are less in women than men. Women should seek immediate medical help in case of chest pain and weakness
SN: What are the symptoms of heart attack?sni
Chest pain, pale or yellow skin tone, nausea, vomiting, cold sweats, pain in other parts of body, anxiety, cough, lightheadedness, irregular and fast heartbeat, shortness of breath and swelling of body are some of the examples. First two hours of heart attack are crucial so patient must be taken to the hospital immediately.sni
SN: How do the signs of heart attack differ in both genders?sni
Symptoms are almost same. However, chances of heart attack are less in women than men. Women should seek immediate medical help in case of chest pain and weakness.sni
SN: When does an individual require heart transplant?sni
Surgery is needed if other treatments are not effective and heart muscles have become weak to the point that they cannot perform their function.sni
SN: What is the purpose of angiography?sni
It is a technique used to examine insides of blood vessels and organs. In this process a special dye is injected into blood which highlights the blood vessels. Doctors can identify problems like narrowing or blockage by observing the movement of this substance on computer screen.sni
SN: What is angioplasty?sni
It is a procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. For this purpose, a spring like tube called “stent” is inserted into arteries. After angioplasty one must avoid smoking, exercise, self-medication and excessive use of animal fats. Otherwise the disease may recur.sni
Cut down salt intake to prevent blood pressure problems and quit smoking. Also help children develop a habit of healthy and simple eating from the very beginning
SN: What kind of care is required post bypass surgery?sni
In this procedure a small incision is made in the chest to restore normal blood flow to obstructed coronary artery. Post-surgery care includes staying in touch with physician, quitting smoking, taking medicines regularly and keeping an eye on blood pressure and weight. One must avoid heavy weight lifting or any activity that can put pressure on chest.sni
Breathing exercises are beneficial too but must be done as per doctor’s recommendation. Also seek help immediately in case of dizziness and weakness during breathing exercise.sni
SN: Some believe garlic is good for heart health. Is it true?sni
Natural items are generally considered good for health. Garlic is a part of Greek medicine and some studies prove it to be effective against heart problems. However, heart is a sensitive organ so instead of relying on remedies alone, seek proper professional help. Also the condition of each patient varies individually so consult a physician before using anything.sni
SN: Any tips to keep the heart healthy?sni
Eat balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits and other food groups, adopt active lifestyle, avoid deep fried items and prefer fresh home cooked meals over canned ones to keep heart healthy. Cut down salt intake to prevent blood pressure problems and quit smoking. Also help children develop a habit of healthy and simple eating from the very beginning.sni
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