Heart disease is no longer a problem limited only to middle age. Recently, serious heart problems are also developing among the youth. The only way forward is to identify modifiable factors that contribute to risks and take proactive measures to protect heart health.
Dr. Johan Christopher, consultant in interventional cardiology at Care Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, told HT Lifestyle that people in their twenties and thirties are facing sudden heart attacks. What is most worrying is that it often occurs without even the usual warning signs. Dr Christopher highlights two root causes, “Ongoing stress and poor sleep are two hidden pressures that strain the heart before anything becomes apparent.”
Also read: Cardiologist explains why women suffer from heart disease more than men
high tension
Young adults can get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but there is always a limit beyond which the stress begins to take a toll on their physical health. Stress is rarely just mental.
“When stress increases over time, hormones like cortisol and adrenaline remain elevated,” the cardiologist said. “It forces the heart to work harder, narrows the blood vessels, and can gradually cause inflammation of the arteries.”
Dr. Christopher said that these changes do not happen overnight. “Over time, the heart and vessels become more sensitive to sudden blockages.”
poor sleep
Sleep is a very important aspect in keeping the heart healthy. “Not getting enough sleep makes the problem worse,” Dr. Christopher said. “A few nights of restless or poor sleep can make it harder for the body to repair blood vessels, regulate blood pressure and maintain a steady heartbeat.”
Poor sleep, when combined with stress, can have dangerous effects, he said. “Together, stress and lack of sleep increase the chance of a heart attack,” he said.
Dr. Christopher also elaborated that young adults are often at risk due to working long hours, academic pressure or late-night habits, which lead to stress and sleep problems. “Many people ignore symptoms such as unusual fatigue, chest tightness or heart palpitations, thinking it’s just everyday fatigue. In fact, these may be signs that the heart is under stress,” he warned.
preventive measures
Taking care of your heart means following healthy lifestyle habits. The cardiologist said, “Following a regular sleep routine, taking short periods of rest, staying active, and keeping your daily workload manageable can make all the difference. Even simple routines, like taking a short walk in the evening or relaxing before bed, give the heart a chance to recover.”
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
