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Medicine Hacks For People With Heart Disease

Often, doctors prescribe medicines that must be taken at specific intervals throughout the day. Now you may ask if taking all your prescribed medicines at a particular time is important. Well, the answer is YES! 

The first step in managing heart disease is taking all the prescribed medicines on time and in the dosage recommended by your doctor. People with heart disease or those at risk of heart disease may also have coexisting conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Your doctor will prescribe different medicines to manage all the co-existing conditions and each medicine has its own specified time which must be noted and followed well. Missing doses may lead to serious problems and other health complications in the long run.

Let us look at some common reasons why people miss their medicines and simple hacks to overcome this situation – 

1. Many patients assume that when their blood reports or BP come normal, they can stop their medicines. 

> If your blood test reports become normal because of medicines, stopping them without a doctor’s advice can harm your health. 

2. Many patients don’t remember to take their medicines on time.

Well, in that case, why don’t you try these – 

> Set reminders on your phone (they’re pretty helpful)
> Keep your pill box close, maybe on your dining table, so you don’t miss a dose after a meal. 
> Inform your family members about your dosage schedule.
> Mention the date on the strip so that you can track your regularity by checking empty slots in the strip. You can also get a pill-box organiser and never miss a dose. 
> Keep spare medicines in your handbag/wallet/car/office desk so you can have them even if you are out of your home.
> Keep a copy of your prescription while travelling away from home. 

3. People also fear the side effects associated with medicines. 

> Some people may experience a few side effects related to their medicines. It is important to always consult your doctor if you experience such side effects. He/She will help you manage them or prescribe an alternative medicine. By no means you should ever stop your medicines without the advice of your doctor.

It is important always to remember that the positive health outcomes of taking your medicines regularly on time outweigh the mild side effects that you may experience. 

4. Delay in purchasing your medicines can cause a few days’ gaps.

> Always set reminders and buy your medicines at least 1 week before the current strip is finished.

5. Some patients cannot purchase all medicines because of financial constraints.

> Taking medicines should be your priority to avoid far more expensive health complications later. You can check for offers and buy medicines online. You can talk to your doctor about alternative brands or generic medicines that cost less.

It is worth noting that most heart diseases can be managed well with a healthy lifestyle, which includes taking your medicines on time, monitoring your sugar levels, blood pressure and lipid profile often, eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising. Never miss follow-up consultations with your doctor.

We wish you good health.  

References

  1. https://www.heart.org/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/What-Is-HBP-Medicine.pdf
  2. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/managing-high-blood-pressure-medications

Also Read: Why Do I Have a Metallic Taste in My Mouth? Unearthing Possible Causes

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

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Medicine Hacks For People With Heart Disease

Often, doctors prescribe medicines that must be taken at specific intervals throughout the day. Now you may ask if taking all your prescribed medicines at a particular time is important. Well, the answer is YES! 

The first step in managing heart disease is taking all the prescribed medicines on time and in the dosage recommended by your doctor. People with heart disease or those at risk of heart disease may also have coexisting conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Your doctor will prescribe different medicines to manage all the co-existing conditions and each medicine has its own specified time which must be noted and followed well. Missing doses may lead to serious problems and other health complications in the long run.

Let us look at some common reasons why people miss their medicines and simple hacks to overcome this situation – 

1. Many patients assume that when their blood reports or BP come normal, they can stop their medicines. 

> If your blood test reports become normal because of medicines, stopping them without a doctor’s advice can harm your health. 

2. Many patients don’t remember to take their medicines on time.

Well, in that case, why don’t you try these – 

> Set reminders on your phone (they’re pretty helpful)
> Keep your pill box close, maybe on your dining table, so you don’t miss a dose after a meal. 
> Inform your family members about your dosage schedule.
> Mention the date on the strip so that you can track your regularity by checking empty slots in the strip. You can also get a pill-box organiser and never miss a dose. 
> Keep spare medicines in your handbag/wallet/car/office desk so you can have them even if you are out of your home.
> Keep a copy of your prescription while travelling away from home. 

3. People also fear the side effects associated with medicines. 

> Some people may experience a few side effects related to their medicines. It is important to always consult your doctor if you experience such side effects. He/She will help you manage them or prescribe an alternative medicine. By no means you should ever stop your medicines without the advice of your doctor.

It is important always to remember that the positive health outcomes of taking your medicines regularly on time outweigh the mild side effects that you may experience. 

4. Delay in purchasing your medicines can cause a few days’ gaps.

> Always set reminders and buy your medicines at least 1 week before the current strip is finished.

5. Some patients cannot purchase all medicines because of financial constraints.

> Taking medicines should be your priority to avoid far more expensive health complications later. You can check for offers and buy medicines online. You can talk to your doctor about alternative brands or generic medicines that cost less.

It is worth noting that most heart diseases can be managed well with a healthy lifestyle, which includes taking your medicines on time, monitoring your sugar levels, blood pressure and lipid profile often, eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising. Never miss follow-up consultations with your doctor.

We wish you good health.  

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

References

  1. https://www.heart.org/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/What-Is-HBP-Medicine.pdf
  2. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/managing-high-blood-pressure-medications
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All You Need To Know About Heart Disease

People nowadays are getting prone to several Heart-related illnesses owing to the unhealthy lifestyle, stress and environmental change around us. However, many of these conditions can be improved with lifestyle modifications, the right medication and treatment. In some of these cases, surgery may become necessary. This article gives an overview of the various types of heart-related illnesses, their signs, symptoms and causes.  

Types of heart disease:

The following are the most common types of heart-related illnesses –

Coronary artery disease or heart attacks happens when coronary arteries struggle to supply the heart with enough blood, oxygen and nutrients. Cholesterol deposits, or plaques, are almost always to blame. These buildups narrow your arteries, decreasing blood flow to your heart. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath or even a heart attack.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Symptoms of heart-related illnesses:

Heart disease symptoms mostly depend on the type of heart disease. However, here are a few common symptoms that you must be aware of. 

These were a few of the most common symptoms. If you witness such symptoms, especially on exertion (while doing mental or physical work), then you must immediately consult a doctor.

Also Read: Take Care of Your Heart: Foods To Avoid If You Have Heart Palpitations

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

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Stress, Anxiety, Pollution: How Traffic Jam Affects Your Health!

Health Impact of Traffic Jam

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in urban areas. Traffic noise and traffic-related air pollutants co-exist in the traffic environment. Polluted air from road transport vehicles contributes significantly to air quality problems through vehicle emissions, which have various harmful impacts on public health.

Traffic and its allied effects can have various adverse health consequences. There is evidence which has confirmed that exposure to traffic noise significantly increases the risk for heart-related diseases, such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, etc. Also, traffic noise can induce adverse effects on the nervous system, leading to the increasing levels of anxiety, irritation, and sleeplessness.

Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Twofold higher risk of Type 2 diabetes is also observed for people exposed to intense traffic. Long-term exposure to particulate matter increases type two diabetes risk in the general population, as does living close to a major road. Also, particulate matter and the increase in oxidative stress have ill-effects on the respiratory system. Besides, traffic noise is significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and can affect the hormonal and digestive system.

The public health effects of traffic during congestion are associated with early deaths. Road traffic noise also has been shown to increase the short-term risk of death from specific diseases of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and hormonal systems.

Moreover, people who live in areas with a higher vehicular burden and face most traffic stress also have the lower health status and higher depressive symptoms that people living in areas with less traffic. These findings suggest that traffic stress may represent an important factor that influences the well-being of urban populations.

Adrenaline Rush and Other Health Issues

Interestingly, studies have also shown that the level of blood adrenaline hormone increases in heavy-traffic compared with during low-traffic conditions. Also, the ability to estimate distance and recognition is reduced due to high-traffic compared to during low-traffic conditions. The increase of the adrenaline during driving on heavy-traffic days can lead to stress because ones accuracy and judgment may be reduced.

Also Read: 10 effects of stress on the body

Air Pollution and its effects

A traffic jam means more vehicular emissions and more pollutants inundating the air. This slowly degrades the quality of air and affects all those who sit for hours at the end amidst traffic congestion. Hence one may say that traffic jams significantly increase air pollution.

An interesting thing to note is that the pollution gathered inside the cars in traffic jams is far higher than that around the cars moving outside. Some of the dangerous and long-lasting effects of traffic jam-induced air pollution are

Also Read: Essential Oils for Congestion: A Research-Based Guide for Relief

Tips to Make Travel Less Stressful

Since we cannot avoid the commute, we need to work around it and make the trip an enjoyable one or at least less stressful.

  1. Try different timings instead of rush hours.
  2. The most important reason we stress out in traffic is that we fear to get late to work. It is better to start a little early since delays increase stress and irritation. It further disturbs us and may affect the rest of the day at work in an imperceptible manner.
  3. If you can, you should have a co-passenger, so try opting for car-pooling with any of your friends or colleagues who stay nearby.
  4. We generally tend to brood over unpleasant issues either related to work or home sitting idle in the vehicle.
  5. In contrast, you should use this time as the precious ‘me-time.’ Arrange for a separate playlist which plays soothing music. Listening to music or a book, we get distracted, and this helps us remain calm.
  6. Meditation early in the morning helps prepare you for the rest of the day, so it does for the commute. Have a healthy complete breakfast; a hungry person gets angrier than a person who isn’t. Try to avoid arguments before leaving home or office, especially, if you are going to drive.

Such small changes in our daily life may help considerably in dealing with the ill-effects and the adverse health effects of traffic jam on our physical and mental well-being.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Things You Must Know Before Treating Obesity With Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery.


Severe Obesity And Its Health Risks

Severe obesity is one of the most serious stages of obesity. You may often find yourself struggling with your weight and essentially feeling as if you’re trapped in a weight gain cycle. In addition, you most likely have attempted numerous diets – only in the end, to see your weight continue to increase. Exercise and diet alone often fail to effectively treat people with extreme and excessive obesity.  

Bariatric surgeries are done when diet and exercise haven’t worked or when you have serious health problems because of your weight. Weight loss is achieved by reducing the size of the stomach with a gastric band or through the removal of a portion of the stomach (sleeve gastrectomy or biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch) or by resecting and re-routing the small intestine to a small stomach pouch (gastric bypass surgery).

Bariatric surgery is designed to alter or interrupt the digestion process so that food is not broken down and absorbed in the usual way. A reduction in the number of nutrients and calories absorbed enables patients to lose weight and decrease their risk for obesity-related health risks or disorders.

Types Of Bariatric Surgery

  1. Adjustable gastric banding (AGB)
  2. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB)
  3. Biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch (BPD-DS)
  4. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG)

Each of these types has its own advantages and disadvantages. Various patient factors affect which procedure is chosen including BMI, eating habits, health problems related to obesity and the number of previous stomach surgeries. The patient and provider should discuss the most suitable option by considering the benefits and risks of each type of surgery.

Benefits Of Bariatric Surgery

Apart from long and sustained weight loss, bariatric surgery provides the following benefits:

Risks Of Bariatric Surgery

The benefits of bariatric surgery must be weighed against its potential risks. In addition to the risks of the surgery itself (such as death, bleeding, infection and blood clots), bariatric surgery may cause nutritional deficiencies in protein, vitamins and minerals. Bone mineral density loss may develop from inadequate intestinal calcium absorption. Low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) after eating carbohydrates and inadequate vitamin B-12 absorption causing nerve damage to the feet, legs, or hands (peripheral neuropathy), may occur over time.

Also Read: How To Get Rid Of A Muffin Top: Effective Strategies Backed By Fitness Experts

Ideal Candidate For This Surgery

Bariatric surgery may be an option for adults who have:

However, consult your doctor who may suggest some extensive screenings to undergo these weight-loss surgeries.

Also Read: What Causes Hip Dips: A Scientific Approach to Understanding Body Shape

Post-Surgery Care

Also Read: Chymoral Forte

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

Diabetes And Heart Disease: What Is The Relationship Between Them?

Diabetes and heart disease as a combination is a deadly one. Did you know that adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to suffer from heart disease than those without diabetes? While it is difficult enough to deal with diabetes, when the person begins to suffer from cardiac problems, the situation becomes much worse. The American Heart Association considers diabetes to be one of the controllable risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Read more to find the connection between diabetes and heart problems and how you can prevent them.

A link between Heart Disease and Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease that is marked by high blood glucose levels. Over a period of time, the elevated sugar in the blood leads to arterial damage that causes them to stiffen and harden. This is known as Atherosclerosis. High sugar levels also lead to plaque formation, as those with diabetes also have high cholesterol levels. When the arteries get damaged due to plaque, the body sends platelets to try to repair the wall. Due to the narrowing of the arteries, this leads to a blockage that stops the oxygen from reaching the heart and the brain and ultimately results in a heart attack or a stroke. It is interesting to note that high cholesterol levels have already occurred before the elevation of sugar levels. Therefore, heart disease has already manifested before the onset of diabetes. Please remember not to self-diagnose or take medications without proper consultation.

Risk Factors of Diabetes and Heart Disease

There are several risk factors when it comes to diabetes and the heart. Here are some of them.

  1. Family History

Those who have a family history of diabetes and heart disease are at very high risk. They should be extra careful about their diet, medicines and exercise. Those with Type 2 diabetes are at a risk of having a silent heart attack or a heart attack without any symptoms.

  1. High Cholesterol Levels

The LDL levels (bad cholesterol) determine the timeline of the onset of heart disease. LDL has been considered one of the most critical factors in determining vulnerability to cardiovascular problems.

  1. Smoking

Smoking causes constriction and tightening of the blood vessels, thereby reducing blood flow to the heart and the brain. Those who smoke and have diabetes, increase their risks of developing heart problems exponentially. Read more about the relationship between smoking and diabetes.

  1. High Blood Pressure

This is another significant risk factor for diabetes and heart disease. Chronically elevated blood pressure levels cause a majority of heart attacks.

  1. Obesity

Obesity is linked to high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and diabetes. Even those who appear lean or thin but have a high amount of belly fat are at an increased risk of developing heart disease.

  1. Sedentary Lifestyle

Those who are not active physically and have diabetes tend to develop heart problems at a much earlier age than their counterparts who are diabetics but who exercise.

  1. Age

Those who develop diabetes earlier in life have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems. Also, as one gets older, the odds of suffering from heart disease increase.

  1. Unhealthy Diet

A diet rich in fats, processed foods and with fewer quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables is bad for diabetes and the heart. Following such an unhealthy diet will cause diabetes and heart disease.

  1. Stress

People with diabetes already respond negatively to stress as their sugar levels become high due to anxiety. Stress can indirectly increase the risk of developing heart problems as it makes one overeat or smoke or drink more. Also, read about the different relaxation techniques to help fight stress.

  1. Gender

More men develop heart problems under the age of 55 years. Women suffer more from cardiac issues once they cross 55 years of age.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Many people who have diabetes suffer from ‘silent heart attacks’ due to the nerve damage related to their high sugar levels. This is why regular screening is essential for all those who have diabetes. There are some symptoms to watch out for. If you suffer from any of the following, call the ambulance immediately.

  1. Chest pain is one of the most common symptoms of a heart attack. It is also known as Angina. It feels like a pressure or painful squeezing of the chest. One might feel it in the arms, neck, back or jaws.
  2. Nausea and lightheadedness
  3. Shortness of breath
  4. Sweating
  5. Fatigue
  6. Indigestion
  7. Loss of balance or dizziness.
  8. Trouble seeing things or having double vision.
  9. Confusion
  10. Sudden severe headache

Also Read: What Level of Blood Sugar is Dangerous? A Complete, Research-Based Guide

Prevention of Diabetes and Heart Disease

There are a lot of things you can do to manage your diabetes and stop or delay the onset of heart problems. The risks are reduced by introducing lifestyle changes, medicines and increasing activity levels. Here are some tweaks that bring positive results.

  1. Healthy Diet

Eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat food items, a high protein diet helps to combat heart problems. Read more about diet tips for diabetes.

  1. Healthy Weight

Shedding off the excess weight and maintaining a healthy weight helps to keep away the cardiac issues for long. Instead of a tough weight loss plan, sit with your doctor and chalk out a reasonable weight-loss strategy.

  1. Quit Smoking

Smoking damages the blood vessels in the body and increases the risk of heart problems. Quit smoking to improve your health. Read more about how to quit smoking.

  1. Get Moving

Exercising for just 30 minutes five times a week brings down the risks of developing heart problems in people with diabetes. If you cannot exercise in one go, divide the activity into batches of ten minutes. It also helps to control the high glucose levels in the blood. Read more about the health benefits of exercise.

  1. Stress Management

Learn to meditate and not stress over things in life. Anger, jealousy, spite are negative emotions that affect the body negatively.

  1. Medications

If you already have heart disease, take your medicines on time to prevent more complicated issues. Furthermore, inform your doctor if you have any history of allergy to medicines (if experienced in the past).

  1. Control the Parameters

To prevent an early onset of heart problems, keep your blood sugar levels and your blood pressure levels under control. Avoid too many fluctuations to prevent organ damage.

Takeaway

There are several treatment options to keep heart disease and diabetes under control. With proper lifestyle changes, effective weight management and efficient control over blood sugar levels, those who suffer from diabetes can live healthy and quality lives.

Read More: 10 Home Remedies for Diabetes

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

References –

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25070828/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31722562/
  3. https://diabetes.org/diabetes/type-2/diabetes-and-your-heart
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10 Unknown Causes Of Heart Diseases!

Heart disease is the leading cause of death all over the world. A few of the early signs of heart disease include shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, nausea and pain in the jaw, neck, throat or upper abdomen. It is worth noting that there are many habits that we have that could be damaging your heart and making you vulnerable to cardiac problems. It is also important to know the, as detecting it early can pave way for more effective treatment options.
  1. Loud Music

The noise from your loud music makes the body release cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenalin- all of which are stress hormones.   If your job involves loud noises, protect your ears and heart by wearing earplugs and earmuffs.
  1. Dental Problems

Research has linked dental problems and heart attacks. Visit your dentist regularly to keep dental problems at bay.
  1. Irregular Work Schedules

Working in shifts? It might not be good for your heart. Having irregular hours at work disturbs the body’s circadian rhythms and makes you vulnerable to heart problems. If you cannot avoid job shifts, ensure you take care of yourself by eating well, exercising regularly and getting timely medical checkups done.
  1. Polluted Air

Regular exposure to air pollution leads to plaque buildup in the arteries. Keep your work and home environment clean by using air purifiers and potting plants that help clean the air.
  1. Not Sleeping Enough

Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to heart disease. Less sleep leads to an increase in stress hormones and increases your blood pressure and heart rate. Your body needs a minimum of six to seven hours of sleep daily.  Read More: 4 Different Types of Stress
  1. Exercise

If you are not exercising at all or doing too much of it, either way you are putting your heart at risk. Lifting very heavy weights could spike your blood pressure to a degree that could lead to an aortic dissection. Ensure you lift weights under professional guidance.
  1. Sedentary Jobs

If you are sitting at your desk full day, you are inviting heart problems. Prolonged sitting leads to a decrease in insulin sensitivity and in enzymes that help metabolize fat. Walk around or do stretching exercises for five minutes for every hour that you sit.Also Read: Wheat Berries: Research-Based Guide to Health Benefits and Recipes
  1. Over the Counter Medicines

Many energy-boosting or performance-enhancing drugs are harmful to your heart. Quite a few contain banned substances like hormones or steroids and even though banned in other parts of the world, may be easily available in your country.
  1. Not Eating Enough Omega-3 Fatty Acids

If you are not a regular fish-eater, chances are your body does not have sufficient amounts of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for good heart health. Snack on nuts- almonds and walnuts to increase your omega-3 intake.
  1. Ignoring warnings

Some symptoms of heart problems are innocuous. A silent heart attack could have symptoms of jaw pain, lightheartedness or tummy pain. If you have a family history of heart problems or are in the high-risk category, do not ignore these signs.Also Read:  Difference Between Heart Attack and Cardiac ArrestDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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8 Surprising Signs of Heart Disease in Men!

India is on its way to become the heart disease capital of the world. A sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, diabetes, and stress are major contributors to this trend.  Almost half of the urban men and one-third of rural men suffer from some kind of heart disease. There can be many causes that may affect heart health. Many of them cannot recognize cardiac trouble. Only when they experience a heart attack, they become aware of the problem. Since prevention is better than cure, it is better to be wary of the symptoms that point to cardiac problems.  Some signs and symptoms of heart disease in men.
  1. Constriction in the Chest
This is one of the more common signs of heart trouble. If you have been experiencing any pain, tightness or any pressure in your chest, please consult your doctor immediately. The feeling of discomfort comes and passes and may last from a few minutes to a few hours.
  1. Physical Exhaustion
Unexplained fatigue and severe exhaustion are significant signs of heart disease. Many men cannot even climb stairs or even walk small distances before an impending heart attack. Notice if you are unable to do the regular chores, especially if you could do them without any issues earlier. Some heart trouble could be brewing, and you should not ignore it.
  1. Erectile Dysfunction
One of the main reasons for erectile dysfunction is that insufficient quantities of blood are reaching the penis. Plaque buildup reduces the flow of the blood and causes damage to the blood vessels. This stands true for the heart and the other extremities. If someone is facing persistent erectile dysfunction, they must get checked for heart problems.
  1. Snoring
Sleep apnea is when there are breaks in breathing while one is sleeping. Some symptoms of this are gasping for breath mid-sleep, feeling exhausted in spite of a regular bedtime and snoring. The pauses in breathing can lead to raised blood pressure, stress on the heart and increased risks of heart disease.Also Read: What is a Fever Dream? Understanding Its Causes and Implications
  1. Sweating
Sweating without any strenuous activity? This could signal a heart attack. Call for an ambulance as it would be dangerous to drive yourself to the hospital.
  1. Tummy Troubles
Nausea, heartburn, indigestion or stomach ache could point to heart problems. Some people even heave up and vomit. These symptoms could also be because of a stomach bug, but if the symptoms increase on physical exertion and reduce on rest, then they are because of some cardiac issue.Also Read: What Causes Night Sweats in Men: Insights from Medical Research
  1. Pain in the Arm or Jaw
One of the more telling signs of heart disease is the pain that radiates from the chest towards the arm, specifically the left arm and the jaw.
  1. Lightheadedness
Suddenly feeling dizzy and having chest pain or feeling breathless? Rush to the hospital. Lightheadedness happens because of a sudden dip in blood pressure.Seek medical attention if you suffer from any of these symptoms. If you have diabetes, hypertension or a family history of heart trouble, you are at risk.Also Read: 8 Signs of Heart Disease in WomenDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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8 Signs of Heart Diseases In Women!

Many of us are aware of the initial symptoms of heart disease. Chest pains are the most obvious indicator, but did you know that signs of a heart attack are different in women than men? An unhealthy lifestyle, inactivity, eating too much junk food or food rich in calories, genetic predisposition and stress are major contributing factors affecting women’s heart health. Estrogen, a hormone secreted by the female bodies, exerts a protective influence on the heart as it causes dilation of blood vessels. Certain kinds of heart disease like stroke, congestive heart failure and hypertension are more common in women.

Some of the signs of heart disease in women

  1. Unexplained Fatigue

If you are unable to take the stairs or bring in the grocery bags from the car, chances are you could be suffering from heart disease. More women than men suffer from unexplained exhaustion. If there are certain activities that you are unable to do now but could do earlier, go for a checkup.

  1. Dizziness

This is another common sign of heart disease that is more apparent in women than in men. Nausea and lightheadedness occur when blood pressure dips suddenly. This could happen because of the heart not functioning properly. Do not ignore it if you are feeling faint.

  1. Indigestion or Gassy Pain

Another sign of heart attack, that more women than men experience, is suffering from indigestion or gas-like ache. The nerves of the stomach and the heart are closely related. Don’t ignore this pain or mistake it for stomach troubles. Consult a doctor if you are suspicious.

  1. Pain In Arms and Jaw

Many women complain of suffering from pain radiating towards the arms and the jaw. Many also feel this pain between the shoulder blades.

  1. Chest Pain

Both men and women experience chest pain if suffering a heart attack. It could be felt as a numbing sensation, heaviness or as a sense of impending doom.

Must Read: First Aid for Heart Attack – How To Deal With Heart Attack

  1. Sweating

If you break into a sweat without any reason, you could be suffering from heart disease. Call the ambulance immediately. Don’t attempt to drive yourself to the hospital.

Women and men share most risk factors for heart disease — including high cholesterol, inactivity, obesity, high blood pressure, and smoking — but there are some gender differences in its development, symptoms, and prognosis. Compared with men, women have a greater chance of dying from heart disease; they’re twice as likely to have a second heart attack within six years of the first; and they don’t fare as well after bypass surgery or angioplasty. On the other hand, women tend to develop heart disease about 10 years later than men.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
  1. Sleep Disturbances

Another sign of cardiac trouble found more in women is disturbed sleep. Sleeping too much or too less or too many breaks in sleep are not good for your heart’s health.

  1. Breathlessness

Shortness of breath, even without any exertion, is a marked indicator of heart disease. Some women even start feeling clammy when suffering a heart attack. They feel as if they have run a marathon but they have not even moved a muscle.

Heart disease is more fatal in women than men as women are less likely to consult a doctor or get their symptoms checked. They are also less likely to get their tests done. Be aware of causes that may affect your heart health. Early detection of heart disease can lead to earlier control of the situation and therefore, less damage to the heart muscles.

Also read: 20 Essential Healthy Heart Tips To Take Care of Your Heart

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5 Reasons To Quit Sugar Even If You Do Not Have Diabetes!

Sugar sits pretty not just on your tabletops- with your morning tea and coffee, but is a part of almost every meal and snack. Your morning cereals, low fat or oil-free snacks you pick up from the shelves, most ready-to-eat sauces, spreads, even low fat yoghurt, all come loaded with sugar. Sugar is a highly processed food and all its damaging effects quietly sneak up in our diet.

5 Primary Reasons Why You Should Quit Sugar:

Starving Your Body

Most ready-to-eat foods are loaded with sugars and constitute a significant portion of on-the-go foods. Substituting a healthy meal with sugary foods means that we skip on essential carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals that should have made up our calories. We replace cereals, protein-rich pulses, and vegetables with zero nutrition foods that are high in empty calories. The body is thus literally starved of the nutrients it requires. Therefore, it is a must to quit sugar.

A 2014 study published in Nutritional Neuroscience explains how a high-fructose diet causes hippocampal insulin resistance while also exacerbating memory deficits. Another study published in Molecular Neurobiology found a link between sugar consumption and negative changes in the brain’s frontal cortex — changes associated with additional cognitive problems. If you want to stay sharp and on top of things, especially as you age, stop eating sugar. Your mind will reward you in spades.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Instant High Followed by a Sluggish Feeling:

Refined sugar is instantly absorbed into the bloodstream that causes the release of the hormone insulin. Insulin helps the body to utilize the sugar and blood sugar levels crash leaving you feeling lethargic. Therefore, a lunch packed with sugary treats leaves you feeling sluggish and tired much earlier than eating fruit or meal containing vegetables. Your productivity declines, you feel sleepy and irritated.

Foods such as bread, biscuits, readymade sauces, fat-free yoghurt are all high in sugar content, even though they do not fall into the traditional ‘sweet’ foods category.

Opt for meals with lots of raw vegetables, fruits, cereals, pulses, and other protein-rich foods to keep you energetic throughout the day.

Affects Your Alertness:

The yo-yo effect of blood sugar levels does not just leave you feeling sluggish and tired physically but affects your mental alertness too. You feel disoriented and are unable to concentrate. It can even give headaches to many of you. You need to limit your sugar consumption if you wish to improve alertness at work.

Also Read: Is Sucralose Bad for You? Unraveling the Truth Based on Research

Causes of Weight Gain:

Is sugar fattening? You bet. We have believed for a long time that its fats that make us fat. This is not entirely true. Sugar is metabolized by our liver, where it is converted into fat and released into the bloodstream. This is the harmful fat that makes us gain weight and is the cause of several diseases.

Most products sold in the market as ”Fat-free” or ”low fat” have fats replaced with sugar to maintain the taste, flavour, and texture. Thus leading you down the very road of weight gain you are trying so hard to avoid.

Also Read: What Causes Low Blood Sugar In a Non-diabetic: Research-Based Analysis

Makes you Hungry:

Sugar and foods containing sugar have no healthy carbohydrates or proteins in them. The insulin spike that follows the consumption of foods high in sugars quickly lowers blood sugar levels and leaves one feeling hungry again. This makes us hungry between meals, which is usually unplanned, makes us binge on whatever is readily available. More sugar and fat!

To quit sugar, it is essential to plan your meals such that they contain adequate essential nutrients required by your body. Moreover, to quit sugar, now can save you from a gamut of future complications like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Read More: 10 Harmful Effects of Sugar

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