Be careful, especially now: the risk of heart attack increases sixfold
Experts warn that a common disease in fall and winter can significantly augment the risk of heart attack. They're referring to the flu, which puts a strain on the heart.
7:54 AM EST, December 12, 2023
The connection between the flu and heart attack
"Battling the flu can strain the heart as the immune system launches a robust defense against the virus. This creates an internal inflammatory state, which may elevate blood pressure and put additional strain on the heart. These harmful changes can potentially lead to a heart attack," explained Dr. Bruno Silvester Lopes, a lecturer of Microbiology at Teesside University, in a conversation with Express.co.uk.
Research indicates that the risk of heart attack can surge up to six times within a week of diagnosis of the flu.
The research team deduced these conclusions after analyzing data from over 26,000 patients from the Netherlands. This calls for heightened awareness and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, particularly during winter months when flu is prevalent.
So, it becomes pivotal to take care of health during winter and avoid risk factors for heart attack, such as high cholesterol and hypertension, which might be exacerbated by the flu. Prevention of the flu through vaccination is also significant for heart health.
Risk factors for heart attack
Arteriosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and overweight or obesity are some of the main risk factors for heart attack. While these factors can be managed, genetic factors also play a crucial role.
Symptoms of heart attack
The most notable symptom of a heart attack is pain in the chest, abdomen, or behind the sternum, typically lasting over 20 minutes and potentially radiating. However, up to 40% of patients don't experience this pain, leading to a false dismissal of suspected heart attack.
So, remember, the absence of pain does not necessarily rule out a heart attack. Other symptoms include:
- A burning sensation similar to heartburn,
- Heart palpitations,
- Shortness of breath,
- Sudden paleness,
- Subfebrile state,
- Feeling of anxiety,
- Nausea or vomiting,
- Sweating,
- Fainting,
- Rapid or slow pulse.
Medical help should be immediately sought at the first signs of a heart attack. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious health complications; a swift response and professional medical assistance are paramount to saving lives and health.
