How to Prevent Myocardial Infarction?

Causes of Myocardial Infarction?

To understand effective prevention of myocardial infarction, it is necessary to understand its causes. Myocardial infarction occurs due to many causes, mainly related to the blockage or reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Some main causes are:

• Atherosclerosis: The formation of plaques due to bad cholesterol (LDL) and fats accumulating in the blood vessel walls. Plaques narrow the arterial lumen and reduce blood flow to the heart muscle.

• Blood Clots: When an atherosclerotic plaque ruptures, the components inside the plaque (fats and clotting substances) can form a blood clot. The blood clot can completely or partially block the coronary artery, reducing or stopping the blood supply to the heart muscle.

• Psychological and Physical Stress: Prolonged stress can increase blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk of infarction. Additionally, sudden heavy physical activity without preparation can also increase the risk for people with heart problems.

• Other Factors: Smoking, stimulant use, a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, or family history also play an important role in increasing the risk of myocardial infarction.

Myocardial infarction is preventable, but many people are often subjective regarding risk factors. A lack of awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures can lead to serious consequences.

Effective Ways to Prevent Myocardial Infarction

1. Control blood pressure and cholesterol to help prevent myocardial infarction

• Monitor Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can lead to many cardiovascular problems, especially myocardial infarction. Regularly checking blood pressure is extremely important in preventing myocardial infarction.

• Check Cholesterol: High cholesterol is also a risk factor. Check cholesterol periodically and adjust your diet accordingly.

• Control Blood Sugar: This is an important part of preventing myocardial infarction, especially for those with diabetes or at high risk.

2. Healthy Diet

• Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They help improve cardiovascular health and reduce bad cholesterol.

• Minimize Saturated Fats: Limit the consumption of foods high in saturated fats, such as red meat and full-fat dairy products. Instead, choose healthy fats like olive oil and avocado.

• Control Salt Intake: Reduce salt in the diet to control blood pressure. Avoid processed foods and use natural spices instead of salt.

3. Regular Exercise for a Healthy Heart

Exercising for at least 150 minutes per week or 75 minutes of high-intensity training helps improve cardiovascular health, reduce weight, and strengthen resistance. You can choose activities such as: Brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling. Pay attention to warming up and stretching before and after training.

4. Weight Management to Prevent Myocardial Infarction

Maintaining a reasonable weight is very important to prevent myocardial infarction. Being overweight can increase the risk of heart disease. Monitor your weight and adjust your diet as well as exercise to maintain an ideal weight.

5. Limit Alcohol and Do Not Smoke

Limiting alcohol use and not smoking are important measures to help reduce the risk of myocardial infarction.

• Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure, a major risk factor leading to myocardial infarction. Limiting consumption helps maintain stable blood pressure. Alcohol contains many calories, easily leading to overweight and obesity, increasing the risk of heart disease.

• Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for myocardial infarction. Smoking narrows blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and reduces oxygen supply to the heart, leading to a higher risk of myocardial infarction. Additionally, Nicotine and chemicals in tobacco damage vessel walls, increasing the likelihood of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

6. Reduce Stress, Reduce the Risk of Myocardial Infarction

Prolonged stress can negatively affect cardiovascular health. Find relaxation methods such as meditation, yoga, or participate in recreational activities to relieve stress. Pay attention to getting enough sleep every day to help prevent myocardial infarction.

7. Regular Health Check-ups

Regular health checks not only help detect potential problems early but also allow you to implement necessary preventive measures to protect cardiovascular health, thereby minimizing the risk of myocardial infarction. Periodic health checks help detect risk factors early, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. This is very important for timely intervention.

Myocardial infarction can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes. By maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, controlling weight and risk factors, you can protect your cardiovascular health. Start today to protect your heart!