Triggers of Heart Attack
Heart disease is leading cause of death in the US. Although death rate has declined, this disease is still a concern in the medical circle.
These are some of the triggers of heart disease.
Heart disease is leading cause of death in the US. Although death rate has declined, this disease is still a concern in the medical circle.
These are some of the triggers of heart disease.
*Lack of Sleep
If you feel grumpy and tired and don't get enough sleep on a regular basis, but you can raise your risk of heart attack, too. In one study researchers found who usually slept fewer than 6 hours a night were twice as likely to have a heart attack as those those who slept 6 to 8 hours. Doctors aren't sure exactly why this is, but they know losing sleep can raise your blood pressure and lead to inflammation. Neither is good for your heart.
*Migraine Headaches
If you feel grumpy and tired and don't get enough sleep on a regular basis, but you can raise your risk of heart attack, too. In one study researchers found who usually slept fewer than 6 hours a night were twice as likely to have a heart attack as those those who slept 6 to 8 hours. Doctors aren't sure exactly why this is, but they know losing sleep can raise your blood pressure and lead to inflammation. Neither is good for your heart.
*Migraine Headaches
People who get these are more likely to have a heart attack later in life than those who don't. And ones that include auras- strange sights, sounds or feelings that start before the headache hits -- seem to have a stronger link to heart problems.
*Cold Weather
*Cold Weather
It' a shock to the system. Being outside in the winter months can cause your arteries to narrow, making it harder for blood to reach your heart. On top of that, your heart has to work harder to keep your body warm. If you're concerned about it, play it smart in cold temperatures, and limit physical activity, loke snow shoveling.
* Air Pollution and Car Exhaust
* Air Pollution and Car Exhaust
Heart attacks are more common when air pollution levels are high. People who breathe in dirty air on a regular basis are more likely to have clogged arteries and heart disease. Sitting in traffic may be especially dangerous because it can combine car fumes with anger and frustration.
* A Big Heavy Meal
* A Big Heavy Meal
Think twice before going back for seconds or thirds - it may hurt more than your waistline. When you eat large amounts of food in one sitting it leads to a higher level of the stress hormone norepinephrine in your body. This can raise your blood pressure and heart rate, and it may trigger heart attacks in some people. Very fatty meals can cause a sudden jump in a kind of fat in your blood.and it may temporarily damage some blood vessels as well.
* Strong Emotions, Negative or Positive
* Strong Emotions, Negative or Positive
Anger, grief , and stress are known triggers of heart problems. but joyful events can sometimes lead to a heart attack as well. It can be triggered by the kinds of emotions that go along with a surprise birthday party, a wedding, or the birth of a grandchild.
* Sudden Intense Exertion
* Sudden Intense Exertion
Getting in shape will help your heart in the long run, but doing too much could be dangerous. About 6% of heart attacks are triggered by extreme physical effort. And while you've heard exercise is a good way to relieve stress, it's especially important not to overdo it when you're angry or upset.
* A Cold or the Flu
* A Cold or the Flu
When your immune system fights off a bug it can cause inflammation that can damage your heart and arteries. In one study, people with respiratory infections were twice as likely to have a heart attack. But their risk level went back to normal after they have been clear of the infection in a few weeks. Heart attack rates are also higher during flu outbreaks-- another reason to get your flu shots.
* Asthma
Your chances of having a heart attack go up 70% if you have lung disease. Even if you use an inhaler to keep it under control, your risk is stil; higher than normal. because of asthma, you may also ignore chest tightness, which can be an early sign of heart attack. Doctors don't know if breathing problems trigger heart attacks
, or if they have a common cause --inflammation.
* Getting out of Bed in the Morning
, or if they have a common cause --inflammation.
* Getting out of Bed in the Morning
Heart attacks are more common in the morning.Your brain floods your body with hormones to help you to wake up, and that puts extra stress on your heart. You may also be dehydrated from a long sleep, which can make your heart work harder, too.
* Sex
* Sex
Like many forms of exercises, sexual activity has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks. But of course, it's a small one, especially if you're physically fit and in good health. For most people can, and should be an important -- and -- healthy part of life. But talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
* Coffee
* Coffee
Just like alcohol ,coffee has its minuses and pluses. Caffeine make your blood pressure go up for a short time, and that can trigger an heart attack, especially if you don't drink it often or you're are at risk for other reasons. Overall though, drinking one or two cups per day does not seem to be harmful.
Credit: WebMD
Credit: WebMD