What is a Heart Attack?
The heart, like any other muscle in the body, requires a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients. This supply is delivered by the two major branching coronary arteries. If one of these arteries or its branches suddenly becomes blocked, a part of the heart becomes deprived of oxygen, leading to a condition called "cardiac ischemia." If the ischemia lasts too long, the heart tissue begins to die. This is a heart attack, known as myocardial infarction—literally meaning “death of the heart muscle.”
Most heart attacks develop over several hours—so never delay seeking medical help if you suspect a heart attack. In some cases, there are no symptoms, but chest pain is the most common warning sign.
Other signs of a heart attack may include shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, or nausea. The pain of a severe heart attack is often described as a massive fist squeezing the heart. If the attack is milder, it may be mistaken for heartburn. The pain may be constant or intermittent. Women are less likely than men to experience the classic symptom of chest pain.
Did you know that Ayurveda and regular pulse diagnosis can help? Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of natural and holistic medicine that treats diseases from their root causes.
A quarter of all heart attack victims die before reaching the hospital, while others suffer from life-threatening complications. These include stroke, heart arrhythmias, heart failure, blood clots in the legs or heart, and aneurysms.
Recovery is always a delicate process, as each heart attack weakens the heart to some extent. Still, it is usually possible to resume a normal lifestyle. Depending on the severity, a person may experience:
– Heart failure, where the heart doesn’t pump blood efficiently
– Arrhythmias or irregular heart rhythms
– Cardiac arrest or sudden cardiac death
– Cardiogenic shock, where the heart is so damaged it affects other vital organs like the kidneys and liver
– Death.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
Most heart attacks result from coronary artery disease, also known as atherosclerosis or “hardening of the arteries.” Over time, this condition clogs the coronary arteries with fatty and calcified plaques.
A typical trigger for a heart attack is a blood clot that blocks blood flow through the coronary artery.
Heart attacks can also be caused by a coronary artery spasm, though this is rarer.
New research shows inflammation also plays a role in developing heart attacks, as the walls of the coronary arteries become inflamed, increasing plaque buildup.
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How to Prevent a Heart Attack?
The good news is that heart attacks can be prevented. Lifestyle changes are the most effective way to lower your risk.
Main Risk Factors for Ischemic Heart Disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Obesity
Smoking and sedentary lifestyle
Stress and hectic daily routine
Diabetes and hereditary heart conditions
Three Key Steps to Prevent Heart Attacks:
Eat a healthy, balanced diet
Avoid smoking
Keep your blood pressure in check
Yoga and Ayurveda are among the best tools to achieve this. Unhealthy diets high in fats and cholesterol harden the arteries and increase heart attack risk.
Smoking is a major risk factor as it contributes to atherosclerosis and high blood pressure—both linked to heart attack. High blood pressure can often be reduced by eating well, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active.
How Yoga Helps
Be Active!
Regular exercise lowers blood pressure and keeps the heart and blood vessels healthy. It also supports weight loss, which helps normalize blood pressure. Walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga are recommended. Avoid intense activities like football and basketball.
Yoga as a Treatment
Yoga is essential for good health, calming the mind while balancing the body. Just 15–20 minutes of yoga a day, with breathing techniques and gentle poses, can be highly effective in preventing heart attacks and promoting heart health.
Pranayama
Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique that improves blood circulation. However, those with serious heart conditions should practice it slowly and in moderation. To learn the correct way to practice, join a course or free seminar such as The Secret of Breath offered by the Art of Living Foundation.
Ayurvedic Guidance
Foods rich in unsaturated fats include fish, avocado, nuts, seeds, and sunflower oil.
Low-fat, high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber and help keep the body in optimal condition.
The ancient science of Ayurveda, closely linked with yoga, offers guidance on using diet to improve health and quality of life.
Top tips:
– Reduce salt intake
– Eat plenty of fresh produce
– Avoid trans fats
– Increase healthy fats to raise good cholesterol and reduce artery blockages
Book your personal Ayurvedic consultation at the Art of Living Happiness Center and attend the free seminar Ayurveda – The Path to Health to learn more.
