When the heart stops beating unexpectedly, it can cause sudden cardiac arrest, which interrupts blood flow to the brain and other important organs. This may be the consequence of an electrical heart malfunction or an underlying cardiac disease. Arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia are the primary cause of cardiac arrest, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Congenital heart defects, heart valve disease, prior cardiac arrest, and hereditary arrhythmias are the main risk factors that may raise the chance of sudden cardiac arrest. Still, half of cardiac arrests happen to patients who have no known cardiac problems.
Even though sudden cardiac arrest can seem unpredictably high, we can lower the risk by taking preventative measures. Preventive measures are essential, and looking after your heart now will help guarantee better health later.
Exercise for heart health: Regular exercise will strengthen your heart muscle and enhance your cardiovascular health. On most days of the week, try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity. Exercises like swimming, cycling, or brisk walking are great options.
Adopt a healthy diet: Fill your body with heart-healthy, nutrient-rich foods. Prioritise eating a diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats. Reduce your consumption of processed foods, high-fat foods, and excessive amounts of sodium as these can aggravate heart disease.
Maintain a smoke-free heart: Smoking increases the risk of heart disease and SCA. One of the best strategies to lower your risk of SCA and strengthen your heart is to stop smoking.
Keep track: Regular checkups will help you maintain your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are risk factors for both SCA and heart disease.
Shed those extra weight: Heart health depends on maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight raises the risk of cardiovascular disease and puts additional strain on the heart. To reach and keep a healthy weight, try to eat a balanced diet and get frequent exercise.
Shed stress: Prolonged stress raises the risk of SCA and can negatively impact cardiac health. Use stress-relieving methods like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and time spent in nature. To improve your well-being and heart health, learn constructive coping mechanisms for stress.
