A HEART ATTACK is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is stopped, causing damage to the heart muscle.
Often, heart attacks are associated with those with a history of heart disease or risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. However, the question that often arises is: can people without a history of heart disease have a heart attack?
The answer is yes. People who have no history of heart disease can still have a heart attack.
Although a history of heart disease and obvious risk factors increase the likelihood of a heart attack, there are several other factors that can cause this condition in apparently healthy individuals.
One of the founders of the Indonesian Emergency Doctors Association, Adib Khumaidi, explained that heart attacks can happen to anyone, anytime, and anywhere.
“Heart attacks are unpredictable, there are many factors now, for example, he has cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension or other diseases, that can be the cause. Or there is no examination of the heart and it turns out there is plaque in the heart that is not known,” said the doctor who is also the chairman of the Indonesian Doctors Association.
Also read: Stress Can Increase the Risk of Heart Disease
Idiopathic and cardiomyopathic can also be the cause of heart attacks.
According to Adib, in an emergency, the symptoms are sometimes not visible so there must be quick treatment, one of which is by checking the pulse.
The following are lesser known risk factors
1. Stress and mental health
Also read: Understanding Heart Attacks and Prevention Tips
Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can affect heart health. Stress can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate, and can trigger unhealthy behaviors like smoking or overeating, all of which contribute to the risk of heart attack.
2. Unhealthy lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle, a diet high in saturated fat and sugar, and smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of heart attack even in individuals without a history of heart disease.
Also read: Young People Can Get Heart Disease If They Live Unhealthily
3. Genetics
Although a person may not have a personal history of heart disease, genetic factors can play a significant role. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to heart disease that has not been diagnosed.
4. Other medical conditions
Autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, or other conditions that affect the body’s metabolism can also increase the risk of heart attack.
5. Intense physical activity
In some cases, very intense or sudden physical activity in someone who is not used to it can trigger a heart attack.
Prevention and awareness
It’s important to remember that prevention is key. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of heart attack, even for those without a history of heart disease:
Healthy lifestyle
Adopt a balanced diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.
Managing stress
Using relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises to manage stress.
Routine health checks
Even if you have no history of heart disease, regular health checks can help detect unseen risk factors.
Education and awareness
Know the early signs of a heart attack and what to do in an emergency.
Heart attacks can happen to anyone, even those with no history of heart disease. By understanding the lesser-known risk factors and taking preventive measures, we can be better prepared for this potential threat and maintain our overall heart health.
Vigilance and proactive action are key to maintaining heart health and preventing heart attacks. (Z-1)
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