In continuation to the first article we released on why young people are at risk for heart issues, here is the part where we spoke to Dr Ramakanta Panda, worlds leading Heart Surgeon & Chairman, Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai about signs of heart attack and what healthy habits we can inculcate for good heart health. Early signs of heart issues It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms, as they could be warning signs of a potential heart issue. But a lot of times people tend to mistake these signs for something inconsequential. Dr Panda shares some signs that should not be taken lightly and are worth investigating.Chest pain, tightness, pressure, or discomfort (angina):If you feel any discomfort or pain in your chest on exertion, whether it's mild or severe, it's crucial to get it checked out by a healthcare professional.Shortness of breath: If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath, especially during physical activity or even at rest, it could be a sign of a heart problem and should not be ignored.Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back: Unexplained pain or discomfort in these areas, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms, could be an indication of a heart issue and should be evaluated by a doctor.Pain or numbness in your arms during physical or mental stress: If you experience unusual pain, discomfort, or numbness in your arms, especially during times of physical or mental stress, it's essential to get it checked out as it could be a sign of heart-related problems.Heart healthy habitsRemember, prevention is key when it comes to heart health. By adopting heart healthy habits and being proactive in managing risk factors, you can reduce your risk of heart disease.

Get moving: Regular physical activity, like brisk walking atleast for 30 minutes a day, five times a week, can help you keep your heart in shape.Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and other health issues. If you're a smoker, it's time to quit for the sake of your heart and overall well-being.Keep your cholesterol in check: High cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Opt for foods that are low in salt and unhealthy fats to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.Tweak your eating habits: You don't need to be a perfect eater, but try to avoid junk food and prioritise healthy, nutritious meals, with more fruits, vegetables and other foods high in fiber.Reduce stress: Chronic stress can increase blood pressure, which can contribute to heart disease. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, yoga or talking to a trusted friend or family member.Prioritise sleep: Good sleep is crucial for a healthy heart. Aim for 8 hours of quality sleep each night and sleep before 10 pm to support your heart health.Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping your body mass index (BMI) in a healthy range can help prevent conditions like diabetes, which can increase the risk of heart disease.Start heart checkups early: One should start getting screened for heart disease as early as age 20, including checking cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes levels, to detect any potential risk factors early on.

The link between diabetes and heart issuesDiabetes is a significant risk factor for heart disease, and unfortunately, it's twice as common in people with diabetes compared to those without it. This includes conditions like coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease, which can have serious consequences for heart health, says Dr Panda.

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Cardiac surgeon explains early signs of heart issues that are often ignored - Indiatimes.com