According to a 2009 study of the Department of Health, lives claimed by cardiovascular diseases in the Philippines has doubled from 85,000 to 170,000 over the past 20 years. To this day, heart diseases still pose as a serious threat to millions of people, due to the fact that heart attacks can happen to anyone almost instantly.
It is said that you will never know when a heart attack will strike you or someone close to you, thus it pays to know important things about the enemy to help arm yourself. Dr. Domicias Albacite, head of the Cardiovascular Center at the Medical City Clark shares some information you need to know about heart attacks.
Is it caused by genetics or lifestyle?
According to Dr. Albacite, heart attacks are greatly influenced by a person’s lifestyle. People who are smokers, inactive, and unhealthy eaters are more likely to suffer from a heart attack. However, he noted that genetics do play a role, too. Those that occur in people below the age of 50 are most likely caused by genetics, while those that occur later are more likely caused by lifestyle.
There is no first aid
With heart attacks, time is of utmost importance. Almost 30 percent of first-time sufferers do not make it to the hospital. This is why Dr. Albacite strongly discourages first aid as it may complicate the person’s condition when professional help is delayed. The moment a person suffers a heart attack, immediately call a hospital to get an ambulance. If you are alone, quickly call the hospital or seek the help of neighbors. Make sure that you always have the phone number of the nearest and most competent hospital with you. For residents in Central Luzon, The Medical City Clark is one of the most accessible hospitals that have world-class facilities and expert doctors that can expertly handle an emergency situation.
Minor attacks are a big deal
Not all heart attacks are life-threatening, but this does not mean the minor ones do not require attention. On some occasions, a person does not even know that they have experienced a heart attack. Once you feel its symptoms, which include chest pain, cold sweats, and shortness of breath, have yourself checked by a professional immediately. Ignoring these symptoms may result to fatal conditions.
Regular check-ups are recommended
A semi-annual check-up is a good prevention for heart attacks, especially if you are a person at risk—if you smoke, live a sedentary lifestyle, eat unhealthy diet, and have other unhealthy lifestyle choices. If your family has a history of heart attacks, make sure you closely monitor your body to check for signs and symptoms, no matter the age.