Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Symptoms of CVD can be subtle, and people may not realize they have a problem until it is too late. Furthermore, with lifestyles becoming increasingly sedentary, stress levels increasing, poor diet and smoking, heart disease has become a common concern not only for the elderly but also for young individuals.
On the occasion of World Heart Day, Dr. Praveen Chandra, Chairman, Interventional and Structural Heart Cardiology at Medanta, highlighted how heart diseases are not limited to just heart attacks. In the Healthwise podcast, he explains that conditions like coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) are all serious problems. CAD, in particular, is one of the most common and dangerous heart conditions, as it involves a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Trends and Technologies in Cardiovascular Care: A Discussion with Dr. Praveen Chandra
Taking responsibility for your heart health
One of the important things Dr. Chandra discussed was how to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack. Many people are unsure about what heartache feels like. Heart-related chest pain often feels like a heavy weight on the chest, sometimes accompanied by a feeling of suffocation. There is no rest in comfort. This pain can also spread to the left arm, neck or jaw. If someone experiences these symptoms, especially along with sweating or shortness of breath, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. If you or someone around you is having a heart attack, call an ambulance immediately. While waiting, try to keep the person calm and seated. These quick actions can save someone’s life.
Additionally, he discussed ways to deal with heart disease and emphasized prevention. He said that 80 percent of heart diseases can be prevented by making proper changes in lifestyle. Here are some top tips to protect your heart:
- remain active: Regular exercise is one of the best ways to keep your heart strong. This is in line with the theme of World Heart Day – Action for Heart. Try to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you do not have time, you can run for 20 minutes three to four days a week.
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Reduce your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks and unhealthy fats.
- Manage Stress: Stress can take a toll on your heart. Nowadays it is affecting the youth also. Find ways to relax, whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or spending time doing activities you enjoy.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is one of the leading causes of heart disease. If you smoke, quitting can dramatically improve your heart health.
- Get regular checkups: Even if you feel well, it is still important to visit your doctor regularly. Simple tests like glucose level, blood pressure check and cholesterol test can catch heart problems early.
Regular checkups become even more important for individuals who have a family history of heart disease, as they are at a higher risk of developing heart problems.
Innovation in Cardiovascular Care
Medical technology has come a long way in recent years, and innovations in heart care have made treatments safer and more effective. One of the latest developments is intravascular ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT), a technique that allows doctors to obtain detailed images of the inside of the arteries. OCT uses a small camera that goes inside the heart and takes pictures of the arteries while performing angioplasty. When the stent is inserted, a camera is used to check if everything is OK, if the blockage in the artery has cleared, and to detect any possible complications. Thanks to this technology, angioplasty has become safer and more predictable. In the past, doctors relied on X-rays or angiograms to look for blockages. With OCT, they can now see every detail inside the artery, improving treatment outcomes and patient safety. Additionally, patients today can consult their doctors from home, receive personalized treatment plans and monitor their heart health without the need for frequent hospital visits.
Heart health is something that everyone should prioritize, regardless of age. With the right knowledge and proactive steps, the risk of heart disease can be significantly reduced. Whether it’s staying active, managing stress, or exploring the latest innovations in heart care, there are plenty of ways to keep your heart healthy. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Regular checkups, healthy lifestyle and early intervention can go a long way in protecting your heart. Let’s take action today to ensure a healthier tomorrow for ourselves and our loved ones.
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