Heart disease is known as an ‘old person’s’ disease. But, the risk factors for cardiovascular disease really don’t start until much later.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol diabetes tobacco use, physical inactivity and poor diet can take a gradual toll on heart health and many of these conditions may show no outward signs.
Why are Young Adults Vulnerable?
Age is only one part of cardiovascular risk. Other factors include:
- Family history of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes or high blood sugar
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
- Excess weight
- Certain existing medical conditions
That no individual risk factor does not necessarily mean someone will get heart disease. But it would be helpful for the individual to know their level of risk to prevent potential problems.
The “Silent” Risk Factors
One reason that checking heart health can be skipped is simply that some key heart risk factors can’t be felt.
Both hypertension and hypercholesterolemia are asymptomatic.
It is also possible for a person to appear healthy despite having risk factors that require medical attention.
Recognize these problems early with properly conducted health checks.
What Can I Do for My Heart?
It’s not about crashing your heart health overnight. What matters are consistent habits.
- Stay physically active.
- Choose a balanced diet.
- Avoid tobacco.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Monitor blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol when appropriate.
- Discuss your family history and personal risk factors with your doctor.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
Signs including chest pain, atypical shortness of breath, exercise-induced fainting, acute weakness or severe sweating must not be experienced in isolation and categorized as tiredness, stress, or acid.
If symptoms are abrupt, severe, or abnormal, go to the doctors immediately.
The Takeaway
There’s no reason why you have to wait ’til you get a few years under your belt to start taking care of your heart.
Understand your risk. Know your numbers. Stay active. Don’t overlook warning signs.
The burden of maintaining your heart is a Twelve Months of the year responsibility not a concern for when you turn a specific age.
This article is for broad health awareness and should not be considered medical advice.