Heart Health Guide | Research Blogs on Heart Rate, Afib, Heart Diseases & More

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Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) occurs when electrical signals in the heart fail to conduct normally. This can cause the heart’s upper chambers to contract more than they’re meant to or be out of sync with the lower chambers. An ECG is a doctor’s best means to keep tabs on AFib. During this non-invasive examination electrodes are placed across your chest to record electrical activity in the heart.

Does AFib show on ECG?

Yes. To identify AFib, this easy, painless test is the best option. Your heart’s electrical activity is recorded. It provides indications of:

Rhythmic rate of your heart
The beat of your heart
The heart’s response to changes in electrical signal strength and timing

Several electrodes, which are little patches, are attached to your chest by a medical professional. They pick up the impulses that form the ECG’s characteristic waveform, and a picture of your heart’s electrical activity is painted for your doctor. However, a regular ECG may miss AFib since it is only a snapshot. Long-term monitoring of your heart rate may need the use of a portable heart rate monitor.

Holter Monitor

While wearing this gadget, your heart’s electrical activity is recorded constantly for 24 to 48 hours. The additional time increases the likelihood of detecting an arrhythmia or irregular cardiac beat.

Event Monitor

This device functions similarly to a Holter monitor, except it only records your heart’s activity when needed. It may begin recording immediately if it detects an anomaly. Alternatively, you might need to activate a switch whenever you experience the following:

Dizziness
Weakness
Lightheadedness
An rapid or irregular heartbeat

An event monitor could take up to a month to detect and document the problem.

Mobile Cardiac Telemetry

This practice is sometimes called “cardiac monitoring on the go.” You carry this tiny monitor to watch your heart as you go about your day. The data is transmitted to a central server via bluetooth, this data is then analysed and a report is generated.

Some Other Tests To Diagnose Atrial Fibrillation

Your doctor may order additional tests to confirm a diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation after doing a physical examination. Examples of such checks are:

Echocardiogram

An ultrasound uses sound waves to produce a moving visual image of your heart for your doctor to examine. A transducer, held by a doctor or other medical expert over the patient’s chest, transmits and receives sound waves reflected off the heart. These loud waves will go right through you.

Echocardiography is performed by passing a thin, flexible tube with a tiny transducer down a patient’s neck. These echocardiograms can give your doctor clearer pictures of your heart, which could be useful in identifying heart issues like clots.

Blood Test

Various blood imbalances can bring on abnormal heart rhythms (Afib). Your healthcare provider can use the results of a simple blood test to assess your liver and kidney function, and determine your potassium and thyroid hormone levels.

Chest X-Ray

To rule out any underlying disorders that could be responsible for or exacerbate your symptoms, your doctor may order an X-ray of your heart and lungs.

Treatment and Medication Options for Atrial Fibrillation

Treatment options for Atrial Fibrillation range from modifying one’s lifestyle, to taking medication to undergo nonsurgical procedures, to even needing open heart surgery. Following a heart-healthy diet, getting enough moderate-intensity exercise, minimising stress wherever possible, and restricting or avoiding alcohol and other drugs are all lifestyle modifications that your doctor may recommend to treat your AFib. Doctors may recommend medication to help manage heart rate or rhythm, or to lower the chance of developing problems from afib when lifestyle changes aren’t enough.

The best way to deal with AFib is to be continually aware of your heart’s condition. Use the revolutionary Frontier X2 heart monitoring device with a continuous ECG feature to always be on top of your heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions :

How does Atrial Fibrillation make you feel?

This can lead to symptoms like lightheadedness, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. Palpitations, in which the heart seems as though it is pounding, fluttering, or beating erratically, can last for some seconds to some minutes.

How do you cure my AFib naturally?

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) symptoms are often reduced in physically active people, specifically those who engage in a minimum of one hundred fifty minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Reducing or eliminating risk factors for AFib, such as being overweight or having high blood pressure, can be accomplished by adopting a healthy lifestyle.

What is Atrial Fibrillation ECG criteria?

If you look at an electrocardiogram (ECG) of someone with Atrial Fibrillation, you won’t see any Atrial Fibrillation ECG P waves, and the QRS complex will be all wonky. If the patient is not using AV nodal-blocking medications, such as beta-blockers or non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, the ventricular rate is typically rapid.

Is it hard to diagnose Atrial Fibrillation?

Similarly, Atrial Fibrillation is notoriously challenging to diagnose. It’s a heart rhythm disorder characterised by a rapid and unsteady heartbeat that increases the risk of stroke and heart failure. Early detection of AFib may be possible if you are aware of the indications, symptoms, and treatment options.

What time of day typically experiences AFib?

AFib episodes tend to be common at night. When you’re asleep, the nerves that regulate your heart rate are less active, resulting in a lower resting heart rate. In these situations, AFib might be triggered by pacemaker activity from somewhere other than the natural pacemaker in the heart.

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial Fibrillation is a form of abnormal cardiac rhythm or arrhythmia. It causes your heart to beat erratically, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. It can drastically raise your heart rate, resulting in your heart’s upper and lower chambers not working properly.

What are the Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial Fibrillation causes vibrations due to an abnormal heartbeat or heart failure due to a lack of atrial contraction and fast ventricular rates, decreasing cardiac output. Reduced cardiac output can lead to symptoms including hypotension, dizziness, and even syncope if Atrial Fibrillation is present alongside structural heart disease.

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The symptoms of heart palpitations are often described as a racing, fluttering, or hammering heart, each of which can be felt in the chest, throat, or neck. Common triggers include a lack of sleep, stress, anxiety, and strenuous actions that stimulate the digestive system.

Even though a racing heartbeat can be normal, it could indicate a more serious problem when occurring frequently. We’ve compiled a list of the most prevalent causes and symptoms of post-meal heart palpitations.

Heart palpitations After Eating: What Causes Them?

Heart palpitations are typically not a major indicator of anything wrong. However, the problem may have deeper roots and require attention. If you can determine what’s causing your palpitations, you can take steps to stop them.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the fluid loss exceeds fluid intake. A fast heart rate is a sign of dehydration. Tachycardia is a medical word for a heart rate of 100 or above in a minute.

Caffeine

If you find it difficult to get through the day without your morning coffee, caffeine withdrawal may be causing your heart palpitations. Consuming a cup or two of coffee won’t seriously impair your health, however, you could face problems when consumption becomes excessive. Caffeine is a diuretic in addition to being a stimulant. Diuretics cause dehydration because they increase the frequency of needing to pass urine.

Alcohol

Recent studies have shown that drinking alcohol while experiencing atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of experiencing heart palpitations.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common contributor to an irregular heartbeat. Increased cortisol and sympathetic nervous system activation during the “fight or flight” reaction can increase heart rate. Anyone who has had a panic attack knows the feeling of their hearts rushing and hammering in unison with their thoughts of impending doom.

What Are Symptoms of Heart Palpitations After eating?

A person experiencing heart palpitations may have the feeling that their heart is:

Racing
Pounding
Nodding off, failing to maintain a steady rhythm
Characterized by the presence of an additional heartbeat
Flip-flopping
Fluttering

Heart palpitations typically occur in the chest and can also occur in the neck or throat. Palpitations are more likely to be caused by an irregular heart rhythm if you have the following:

Coronary illness
Major coronary heart disease risk factors
The cardiac valve is abnormal

How To Treat Heart Palpitations After Eating?

Heart palpitations can be treated in various methods, but a medical practitioner should always evaluate the symptoms to rule out anything serious. If your signs and symptoms fit the benign-but-common group, then adjusting your way of living might help.

A smart place to start would be to reduce how much caffeine you consume. Caffeine use during the afternoon hours is discouraged by sleep experts since it interferes with your sleep cycle.
It’s also a good idea to give up smoking. Quitting smoking has many health benefits, including a reduction in heart palpitations.
Without the influence of drugs like caffeine or nicotine, your heart palpitations may be caused by your emotions. Throughout the day, write down what you ate, how you felt if you had any vibrations, etc. As a result, you can recognise triggers or patterns moving forward.

Numerous potential triggers of heart palpitations are completely safe. If you drink some water to treat dehydration, take some medication for your anxiety, or cut back on caffeine use, your palpitations should go away. However, palpitations can be a symptom of serious illnesses like heart disease. No matter what prompts them, heart palpitations are unsettling. If your palpitations make you nervous, it’s time to consult a doctor. Fainting, near-fainting, chest pain, or difficulty breathing are all reasons to seek medical assistance immediately.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

How can I stop heart palpitations?

Yoga, meditation, or a mindfulness activity that focuses on your breathing may help you manage heart palpitations caused by stress or worry. Moreover, if caffeine is a known culprit in causing your vibrations, You may want to consume less coffee and caffeine.

Are heart palpitations normal?

As a common physical manifestation of stress and anxiety, heart palpitations are frequently experienced.

Do herbal medicines have any effect on preventing heart palpitations?

We need to be made aware of effective herbal treatments for heart palpitations. Supplements or foods high in potassium and magnesium are highly useful for people experiencing palpitations or even more serious cardiac rhythm issues due to low levels of these minerals in the body.

Do palpitations go away?

Heart palpitations are common but usually innocuous and disappear on their own. However, there may be a medical explanation for them, which is what we refer to when talking about arrhythmia. Despite how common they are, heart palpitations can cause great distress.

Do palpitations damage the heart?

In most cases, the heart is unharmed by an arrhythmia on its own. Indeed, patients with very high heart rates for extended periods are at risk for cardiac hypertrophy and failure.

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Did you know that stretching can help you improve your heart health? That’s right—stretches aren’t just for your muscles, they can also help strengthen your heart. In fact, regular stretching can reduce your risk for coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and a number of other cardiovascular issues.

Does stretching exercise improve heart health?

According to the Centre for Disease Control (ref. link), one person loses their life to cardiovascular disease every 37 seconds (in the US). Although you cannot alter factors like your genes, family history, or age, you can still improve your health by modifying your lifestyle. According to recent research from the University of Milan, stretching for 12 weeks lowered blood pressure, reduced artery stiffness, and increased blood flow. Good blood flow is associated with a lower risk of heart attack or stroke because it causes less wear and tear on the artery walls. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and/or inflammation are common in people with stiff arteries.

Stretching and flexibility Exercises that Enhance Heart Health:

Regular stretching can help keep your heart healthy by increasing blood flow, improving posture, and reducing stress. Let’s take a closer look at stretching and flexibility exercises, and how they benefit your heart health.

1. Glute and Quad Stretches-

Glute bridges & Quad kneeling stretches

Activates the glutes, which can help stretch and elongate major muscles surrounding the femoral artery
Helps improve blood circulation in the lower body
Easy to do and does not require any special equipment
Suitable for people of all ages

2. Groin stretches-

Clamshells & Kneeling groin stretch.

Improve blood flow in the groin area by releasing pressure on femoral artery
Ease tension in hips and groin
Prevent stiffness from sitting
Do these moves anywhere, without equipment

3. Upper Body Stretches

Rowing exercises with a band & Pectoral wall stretches

Increases blood flow to the subclavian arteries and carotids
Tightens and tones the muscles in your arms, chest, shoulders and neck
Reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke

Benefits of Stretching and Flexibility exercises for Heart Health

Stretching is a great way to improve the functioning of your cardiovascular system.
It helps improve blood circulation by allowing oxygen-rich blood to flow more freely throughout the body.
This improved circulation can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke, by allowing oxygen-rich blood to reach all parts of the body more quickly.
Additionally, stretching increases muscular endurance which can lead to improved performance during physical activities like running or biking. This improved performance can ultimately help lower your risk of high blood pressure or other cardiac issues associated with physical inactivity.
These exercises are low-impact, which means they won’t put too much strain on your joints or muscles. This makes them an ideal form of exercise for people with chronic pain or other physical limitations.

Tips for stretching safely

As you stretch, do not hold your breath. Maintain calm and steady breathing.
Do not stretch until you feel pain. You should only experience minimal discomfort.
Avoid movements that are bouncy or jerky, as they might cause injury. Just maintain the stretch.
Do not hurry. Hold the stretch for ten to thirty seconds.
Stretch at the end of a workout or after a hot bath or shower – when your muscles are warm.

Regular stretching and flexibility exercises offer numerous heart health benefits. Not only do they help increase blood flow throughout the body, they improve posture, reduce stress levels, and even reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases/stroke over time. So, if you want to improve your overall health, especially your heart health, try adding some simple stretches into your daily routine.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Stretching Exercise :

What are some good stretching and flexibility exercises for heart health?

Glute bridges, Quad kneeling stretches, Clamshells, Kneeling groin stretch, Rowing exercises with a band, & Pectoral wall stretches are some good stretching and flexibility exercises for heart health.

What are the benefits of doing these exercises?

These exercises not only increase flexibility and muscle tone, but also improve heart health by increasing blood flow and reducing artery stiffness. Stretching also reduces stress, which reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease over time.

Are there any stretches or exercises I should avoid if I have heart health issues?

Before beginning a physical activity programme, consult your physician or healthcare provider. If you have a heart health issue or are at a high risk for heart disease, your physician may administer an exercise stress test to identify potential problems.

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What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a heart rhythm disturbance that causes irregular heartbeats. It can lead to severe complications if not treated. AFib is generally caused by a disturbance to the electrical impulses that control the beating of your heart. The heart’s upper chambers, known as the atria, contract and relax out of sync with each other. This causes them to quiver instead of beating normally, which leads to an irregular heartbeat. The irregular heartbeats caused by AFib are felt as heart palpitations or skipped beats (arrhythmia). They may also lead to shortness of breath or dizziness as they lower the oxygen levels in your blood, making you feel lightheaded. Patients that suffer from AFib experience chest pain/pressure that mimics an angina (chest pain caused by coronary artery disease). However, it’s vital to remember that this type of pain does not necessarily mean you have coronary artery disease. It could just be from AFib itself. With that said, let’s discuss whether or not exposure to certain chemicals causes AFib.

Can exposure to chemicals cause AFib?

In short, Yes! A study by the American Heart Association (ref. link) found that people working in jobs with high exposure to chemicals have a higher risk of developing AFib. The chemicals in question include those used in manufacturing and industrial settings, as well as those found in cleaning products and pesticides. These chemicals are called cardiac toxins and can cause inflammation and oxidative stress on your body, increasing your risk of developing an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). These effects are especially pronounced if you’ve been exposed to these cardiac toxins for long periods or multiple times throughout your life.

Chemical exposure and heart issues.

Environmental chemical exposure is a common cause of heart disease, with several studies demonstrating this connection with Chemical Cardioversion. The most common chemicals linked to cardiovascular damage include dioxin (a byproduct of some manufacturing processes), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), asbestos, and cigarette smoke. Dioxin is a cardiac toxin that has been shown to cause heart damage by increasing oxidative stress on the heart. Oxidative stress occurs when the body’s ability to neutralize free radicals is overwhelmed, thereby damaging your heart tissue. It can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and hypertension (high blood pressure). The most common cardiac toxins are inorganic mercury, which is often found in the form of thimerosal. Thimerosal is a preservative used in vaccines to prevent bacterial contamination. Inorganic mercury can be inhaled or ingested through food or water. However, it can also be absorbed through skin contact or through air contaminated with mercury vapor. The main concern about inorganic mercury exposure is its potential to cause neurological damage.

Thallium is another toxic heavy metal linked to heart problems when one is exposed for long periods (e.g., from drinking water). However, there are no known cases where thallium poisoning from environmental exposire has been linked directly to heart health issues; instead, it’s typically seen as a result of occupational exposure (e.g., working with thallium-containing compounds such as insecticides). Other metals like arsenic may also cause heart problems when they enter the body through water or food sources. However, this type of exposure would likely require large amounts over long periods (i.e., years).

Another harmful chemical is Benzene, an organic compound that’s found in crude oil. It’s also used to make plastics and other products. Patients living near an oil refinery or chemical plant may be exposed to high levels of benzene in the air, soil, and water. Benzene can damage your heart muscles by reducing their ability to contract properly, leading to heart failure and an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). When this happens with long-term exposure, there could be permanent damage to your heart muscles.

Now that we know everything about chemical exposure and how it affects the heart, let’s discuss the methods to prevent chemical exposure from causing AFib.

How do we prevent chemical exposures causing AFib?

There are several ways to prevent exposure to cardiac toxins that may cause AFib.

Avoid using products with phthalates. These chemicals are used in processing many plastics and can be found in everything from shower curtains to shampoo bottles.
Avoid buying products with BPA in them. BPA is a chemical used to make plastic more durable and flexible. Though it has been shown to cause cancer and other health problems, it is still commonly found in baby bottles, food containers, and more.
Buy non-toxic cleaning products for your home. It’s essential to have clean air inside your home and outside!
Avoid contact with pesticides and herbicides.
Stop smoking or drinking alcohol excessively.
Avoid exposure to lead, mercury, and arsenic.
Use natural cleaning products instead of chemicals or harsh solvents to clean their home.
Use glass or stainless steel containers for food storage rather than plastic containers containing BPA (bisphenol A).
Avoid tap water if you reside in an area with high levels of fluoride or chlorine. These cardiac toxins can increase your risk of AFib by causing calcification in the lining of your heart’s blood vessels (which increases their stiffness).
Drink organic milk that has been tested for glyphosate.
Use natural soaps and shampoos instead of detergents with harsh chemicals.
Use natural cosmetics instead of makeup with toxins.

So, can exposure to chemicals cause AFib? The answer is yes. Patients with heart health problems must be aware of the risks of exposure to cardiac toxins. It’s also important to realize that there are ways for you to protect yourself from these risks. For instance, patients must follow all safety protocols and wear protective gear if they work in a chemically hazardous environment. If you’re worried about exposure to cardiac toxins causing your AFib, consult a doctor immediately. Sometimes medication can help reduce symptoms of cardiac toxicity or Afib, while other times, surgery is necessary.

Finally, monitor your heart rate, strain, heart rhythms, HRV, continuous ECG and a lot more with a heart rate monitoring device such as Frontier X2.

Frequently Asked Questions on AFib Risk Factors :

What factors cause AFib?

Specific circumstances can bring on an episode of atrial fibrillation, such as :

Excessive alcohol consumption – especially binge drinking.
Excess weight
Use of illicit substances – especially cocaine or amphetamines

What substances might harm the heart?

According to a recent study (ref. link), exposure to phthalates (which are included in many plastics) may increase the chances of death from cardiovascular disease. Phthalates, often known as plasticizers, give vinyl polymers their suppleness and flexibility.

What are the initial indications of a weak heart?

Signs and Symptoms of cardiac toxicity might include :

Breathlessness while moving around or resting.
Weakness and exhaustion.
Legs, ankles, belly, and feet swelling.
Irregular or fast pulse.
Decreased capacity for exercising.
Persistent coughing or wheezing produces blood-tinged mucus in either white or pink.

How can patients strengthen their hearts?

Be active – Your heart is a muscle; like any other muscle, it becomes robust with activity.
Give up smoking
Lose weight
Consume heart-healthy meals
Don’t overlook the chocolate
Avoid overeating

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Have you ever felt like your heart is racing uncontrollably, missing a beat, or pounding too fast? If yes, this could be a sign of heart palpitations. Palpitations can be felt in the chest, throat, or neck and can be triggered by stress, exercise, and medication. In some cases Covid-19 can also cause your heart rate to increase or beat irregularly in response to fever or inflammation (Ref. link). So yes, it is normal to have heart palpitations post covid.

Covid-19 and Heart Palpitations: What Does The Research Say?

The British heart foundation states that researchers are still trying to understand why people are experiencing changes to their cardiac health post Covid. These changes could be due to both the coronavirus and the subsequent immune response affecting the autonomic nervous system. Your autonomic nervous system is the part of the nervous system that regulates your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. As per BHF, covid-19 can affect your heart in many ways: heart palpitations, blood clots, a faster heart rate, heart damage due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients, and inflammation of the heart muscle and lining.

What Can One Do To Deal With Palpitations After COVID-19?

Palpitations are common and not usually a cause for concern. However, if they remain for a prolonged period, start to get worse, and you’re getting worried, it is advisable to consult your doctor. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends paying closer attention to your cardiovascular health once you have had covid.

It is certainly possible to live with palpitations, and a number of people learn to do so by managing anxiety or relying on medication. The American Heart Association also states that maintaining a healthy sleep cycle is imperative in helping assuage some of the post covid heart issues. Lastly, one must always stay informed. Ensure that you follow the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (ref. link)for regular updates about the coronavirus.

How Do You Know If Your Heart Is Affected by Coronavirus?

A sigh of relief is in order if you’re one of the many who survived the multiple variants of coronavirus. However, it is important to watch out for any long-term complications of COVID-19.

The common heart problems after COVID are:

1) Myocarditis – making it hard for your heart to pump blood and beat regularly

2) Blood Clots – including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms

You could have myocarditis if you experience tiredness, pain in your chest, troubled breathing, or an irregular heartbeat. Some of these symptoms are likely to indicate clots as well, including troubled or irregular breathing. We recommend that you head to the closest emergency room if any of these symptoms are severe. Though we do not know the effects of covid on pre-existing heart conditions, it is possible that heart problems can be exacerbated by a severe episode of COVID-19. This is not likely if you had mild or asymptomatic COVID.

Finally, the best way to keep tabs on your heart health is by using a smart heart monitor. Check out the revolutionary Frontier X2, the heart rate monitor which gives you all the information you need to stay heart healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions on Heart Palpitations After Covid – 19:

What Are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations refer to the feeling of your heart racing, missing a beat, or pounding too fast.

Can Covid-19 Cause Palpitations?

Palpitations are a common symptom of Covid-19 and may be experienced by people of all ages, including those who are otherwise healthy. Covid-19 can cause your heart rate to become fast or irregular in response to fever or inflammation. It is important to note that Covid-19 can cause a variety of symptoms, and not everyone who contracts the virus will experience palpitations.

Are Heart Palpitations Dangerous?

It’s quite common to have heart palpitations. However, if they remain for a prolonged period, start to get worse, and you’re getting worried, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Other Heart Health Topics To Explore:

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Did you know you can have a heart attack and be totally unaware of it? You might picture a person clutching their chest in pain, gasping for breath, and collapsing to the ground. However, not all heart attacks are as dramatic or as easily recognized. Those which are not are called ‘silent heart attacks’, and they can be just as dangerous as their more noticeable counterparts. A silent heart attack occurs the same way a normal heart attack does: when one or more arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle get blocked. Without treatment, this blockage can cause permanent damage to the heart muscle and lead to serious health problems like heart failure and stroke.

What is a silent heart attack?

Statistics from The American Heart Association (ref. link) show that 1,70,000 of the 8,05,000 heart attacks that occur in the United States each year are silent heart attacks. A ‘silent heart attack’ is a heart attack with unrecognised, mild, or no symptoms. It is also called a ‘Silent Ischemia’ or a ‘Silent Myocardial Infarction’(SMI), and is often misinterpreted as indigestion, excessive fatigue, or a strained muscle in the chest. Many times, when you get your ECG done as part of routine checkups, you end up being diagnosed with a heart attack that you had no idea you’d had.

What are the risks?

One of the greatest risks of a silent heart attack is that it often goes undetected until it’s too late. Because there are usually no noticeable symptoms, people often don’t realise they’re having one until the heart muscle is severely damaged—which can happen very quickly. Most individuals who have a silent heart attack do not seek immediate treatment. This increases the likelihood of a second, potentially more severe heart attack, which can lead to complications such as heart failure and stroke. People who have a Silent heart attack but do not receive treatment are three times more likely to die from coronary artery disease (ref. link).

According to this study (ref. link), people who have experienced a silent heart attack have a 35% higher risk of developing heart failure than those who do not exhibit any symptoms of a heart attack. Silent heart attacks may also increase the risk of stroke (ref. link) later in life. All this considered, it should be clear that, over time, silent heart attacks are just as fatal as diagnosed ones.

Silent heart attack and diabetes

The occurrence of Silent heart attacks are especially common for people with diabetes, making the condition a major risk factor for SMI. Due to the common side effect of nerve damage in diabetic patients, warning signs like chest pain may be harder to perceive. Silent myocardial infarction (SMI) is extensive and more severe in diabetic than in non-diabetic patients (ref. link).

The impact of a silent heart attack is similar to the impact of a heart attack with visible symptoms. People who experience a silent heart attack have a higher risk of:

Heart failure
Stroke
Sudden death

Pay attention to the following warning signs (ref. link) and seek medical help to avoid further complications:

Discomfort in the chest region that lasts for few minutes, or goes away and comes back
Discomfort/pain in upper body areas such as both arms, upper back, neck, shoulder.
Shortness of breath
Feeling nauseated or lightheaded

Who is at risk of a silent heart attack?

Studies (ref. link) show that females living with diabetes have an increased risk of having a silent heart attack. However, research from 2021 (ref. link) suggests that the incidence of silent heart attacks is higher in men than in women. Essentially, Silent Heart Attacks are incredibly prevalent, and everyone should be on the lookout for signs of one.

Other risk factors for silent heart attack are :

High cholesterol
Hypertension
Diabetes
Obesity
Smoking and drinking alcohol
Family history of heart disease

How to prevent a silent heart attack?

You can keep your heart healthy by doing the following:

Eating a balanced diet
Exercising regularly
Quitting smoking and Alcohol
Reduce stress
Controlling blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels
Maintaining optimum weight
Regular medical check-ups
Use a heart rate monitoring device (like the Frontier X2) to optimise your heart health

Diagnosis and treatment of a silent heart attack:

Silent heart attacks are often diagnosed after the fact because you do not notice its symptoms. It is usually diagnosed when you visit a doctor for routine check-ups or for persistent symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or heartburn.

Tests that help a doctor diagnose a silent heart attack are:

Electrocardiogram (ECG) which can highlight the heart damage
Blood test for protein Troponin T
Exercise stress test to check how well your heart works during physical activity

Patients who experience a silent heart attack require an aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic approach because they are likely to develop other heart complications.

After proper diagnosis, your doctor might prescribe medication (ref. link) like:

Beta blockers to reduce the number of ischemic episodes
Calcium channel blockers in patients with specified pathogenic mechanism
Aspirin and statin are also used

Finally, as mentioned above, one of the best things you can do for your heart is monitor it as much as possible. Purchase the revolutionary Frontier X2 to receive the most important heart health related data that will help keep you safe and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions on Silent Heart Attack :

What are the symptoms of a silent heart attack?

You may not notice any symptoms of silent heart attack, but few symptoms like discomfort in chest, pain in upper arms, or shortness of breath are often ignored as less serious problems.

Who is susceptible to a silent heart attack?

Women, patients with diabetes, and those with hypertension are at high risk for silent heart attacks.

How would I know if I got a silent heart attack?

Most of the time, if you have a silent heart attack, you won’t be aware of it. Attacks tend to be discovered during routine medical examinations using ECG.

How concerned should I be about having another heart attack?

After a silent heart attack, your risk of suffering a second, potentially dangerous heart attack will increase. Once diagnosed with a history of SHI, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

How successful are the treatments for a heart attack?

Once the diagnosis has been made, treatment for a silent heart attack is as effective as treatment for a regular heart attack.

While a silent heart attack may not seem as serious as a traditional heart attack, the risks are just as great. A silent heart attack poses a greater risk than one with symptoms because it often goes undetected. Consult your healthcare provider if you think you have suffered a silent heart attack. Don’t wait until it’s too late – early detection is key when it comes to treating silent heart attacks. A review of your symptoms and medical history, as well as a physical examination, can assist your physician in determining if further tests are necessary. The good news is that silent heart attacks can be treated with the same medications and procedures used to treat traditional heart attacks.

Other Heart Health Topics To Explore:

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Meditation is not just good for the mind, it’s great for your heart and overall well-being. According to Harvard Health Publishing (ref link), there are different types of meditation, and they each have different physiological benefits. Guided meditation helps you relax, Transcendental meditation uses repeated sounds and phrases to help you clear your thoughts, and Mindfulness meditation helps you focus on the present and accept it without judgment. So, let’s take a look at Mindfulness meditation, and specifically how it benefits your heart health.

What Is Mindfulness Meditation?

It is a practice that teaches you how to slow down racing thoughts, let go of negativity, and be focused on your present. It allows you to acknowledge and accept your thoughts and feelings without judgment. For this reason attention and acceptance are vital parts of mindfulness meditation. Verywellmind states that to get started with this brand of meditation all you need is a comfortable place to sit, five minutes of free time, and a judgment-free mindset.

How Is Mindfulness Meditation Good For Heart Health?

A report in The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley (ref. link) states that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for about 1 in 4 deaths every year. As per other research, meditating can increase respiratory sinus arrhythmia, i.e. the natural variations in heart rate that indicate better heart health and an increased chance of surviving a heart attack. Furthermore, mindfulness meditation improves your cardiovascular capacity and helps your heart perform better.

Tips To Practice Mindfulness Meditation

According to the American Psychological Association (ref. link), it can take a little while to get used to mindfulness meditation. With time and practice you will be able to focus on your heart health and improve your overall well-being. Here are some ways to get started.

Set a Reminder: It is difficult to form any new habit, and so it’s understandable that it will take a while to add this practice to your daily routine. Choose a time, set a reminder, and make it a point not to miss your meditation. Soon it will become a part of your routine, and you’ll reap all the benefits.
Add It To Your Do: While jotting down things to do for the day, make sure that you leave 5-10 minutes aside for mindful meditation. Add it consciously to your to-do list so that you feel compelled to do it.
Treat yourself: Try the reward method. Set a goal of practicing mindful meditation at least 14 days in a row, and when you achieve the target, treat yourself to your favorite dessert.
Opt for Mindful Meditation Classes: Go to classes, learn how to do it, understand the importance and practice it. This way, it becomes easier for you to adapt to meditation.

Overall, ensure that you do it without judgment and keep your heart health and well-being in mind.
Finally, pair your meditative practice with the use of a heart monitoring device to ensure you’re making your heart healthier with every session. Purchase the revolutionary Frontier X2 device, and be on your way to a healthier tomorrow.

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We live in a fast-paced world where stress has become a part of our life. As widespread as it may be, it’s important to understand that chronic stress can cause (ref. link) depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular diseases. Doctors often recommend stress tests to determine heart health. A cardiac stress test and exercise stress test determines how well your heart responds when it’s made to work at its hardest. It is a great way to assess whether your heart is healthy.

What Is The Purpose Of Doing A Stress Test?

According to the British Heart Foundation (ref. link), the stress test helps you and the doctor understand how well your heart pumps blood, and whether it is receiving an adequate blood supply. It lets the doctor analyze if you have any issues with your muscles or valves. Depending on the stress test results, the doctor determines whether you need additional tests.

Types Of Stress Tests

MedicalNewsToday (ref. link) states that there are three types of stress tests.

Exercise Stress Test: In this test, the doctor aims to determine the person’s heart rate, how tired they feel during different levels of physical activity, and their blood pressure. The exercise stress test takes place on a treadmill, with the patient made to jog and continually increasing speeds. The doctor attaches sticky electrodes to the person’s chest so they can monitor the heart and analyze the readings.
Nuclear Test: As per the National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute (ref. link), a nuclear test, also known as thallium stress test, is performed after the exercise test. Here the doctor injects a tracer dye into the arm of the person taking the test. The tracer dye helps highlight the heart and blood flow on an image, and is able to show the areas of the heart where the blood is not flowing.
Stress Echocardiogram: This is similar to the stress test but provides in-depth details about the heart. Doctors perform an echocardiogram before and at peak exercise. It evaluates blood flow through your heart, the pumping chambers of the heart, and the valve functioning.

What Is The Process Of Stress Test?

Stress tests take place on a treadmill, and the speed and grade of the treadmill increases as the test continues. It lasts for 15-20 minutes. The doctor may ask you to stop the test if you experience chest pains, fatigue, or weakness. Your heart rate and breathing will be monitored for a short while, even after the test. It is advisable to report any chest pains or complications you notice before starting the test. Before the test begins your doctor can check your heart and breathing by attacking stick pads to your body. You will get your results a few days after the test has been completed.

Finally, though stress tests are extremely valuable, they are a snapshot of the functioning of your heart at the time of the test. These tests are usually no longer than 30 minutes, so what do you do if you want to monitor the functioning of your heart through the day, through all your different activities.

Do not worry, because our patented Frontier X2 heart monitoring device allows exactly this. Purchase the Frontier X2 to always know how healthy your heart is!

Frequently Asked Questions on Heart Stress Test:

What Is a Stress Test?

Stress test determines how well your heart responds when working at its hardest. It is a good way to assess if the heart is healthy.

What Are The Three Types Of Stress Test?

There are three types of stress test- the exercise stress test, the stress echocardiogram, and the nuclear stress test.

What Is The Duration Of A Stress Test?

The stress test lasts for 15-20 minutes. The doctor may ask you to stop the test if you experience chest pains, fatigue, or weakness.

Where Is the Stress Test Performed?

It is performed in a doctor’s office or hospital.

What is the normal heart rate during a stress test?

During a stress test, the heart rate should increase in a predictable way as the intensity of the exercise increases. The normal heart rate during a stress test depends on a number of factors, including your age, fitness level, and the type of test being performed.

As a general rule, the heart rate should increase by about 10-20 beats per minute (bpm) for each 1-minute stage of the test. For example, if you are 50 years old, your resting heart rate may be 70 bpm. During the first stage of the test, your heart rate may increase to 90 bpm. During the second stage, it may increase to 110 bpm, and so on.

The goal of the test is to increase the heart rate to a certain level, usually between 85-95% of the maximum heart rate for your age. The maximum heart rate can be calculated using the formula: 220 – age = maximum heart rate. For example, if you are 50 years old, your maximum heart rate would be 170 bpm (220 – 50 = 170). During the stress test, the goal would be to increase the heart rate to around 153-162 bpm (85-95% of 170 bpm).

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Menopause is a natural part of ageing and usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 in women. During menopause, the body’s production of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, decreases. This can lead to a number of physical and emotional symptoms, including hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Heart palpitations are a common symptom of menopause. They are characterised by the feeling of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heart rate. Palpitations can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in hormone levels, stress, caffeine, and certain medications. In most cases, heart palpitations are benign and do not indicate a serious medical condition. However, if you are experiencing heart palpitations and are concerned about your health, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

There are a number of ways to manage heart palpitations during menopause, including:

Reducing stress: Stress can contribute to heart palpitations, so finding ways to manage stress can be helpful. This may include activities such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
Avoiding triggers: Some people find that certain foods or drinks, such as caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco, can trigger heart palpitations. Avoiding these triggers may help reduce the frequency and severity of palpitations.
Managing hormone levels: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be an option for some women to help manage menopausal symptoms, including heart palpitations. However, HRT is not right for everyone and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Medications: In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage heart palpitations. These may include beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, or anti-arrhythmic drugs.

Just like getting grey hair and wrinkles, menopause is a sign of ageing for women. When a woman enters her menopausal phase it is common to experience hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, and weight gain. It is important to understand that Menopause is not a disease and is entirely natural for women in their mid 40-50s. That being said, you must be aware that it also affects a woman’s heart health. As per Heart.Org (ref. link), more than one in three females get heart disease about 10 years after menopause. So, let’s take a closer look at how menopause affects the heart.

How Menopause Affects The Heart?

Menopause is considered to have begun when a woman does not menstruate for 12 consecutive months. When women start missing their period cycle they develop metabolic syndrome. This is an amalgamation of excess belly fat, high cholesterol, and elevated blood sugar, all of which increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. In fact, as per American Heart Association (ref. link), heart disease is the leading cause of death amongst women, causing 1 in 3 deaths per year.

Besides weight gain and high cholesterol, depression and insomnia are common symptoms of menopause. Depression, stress, and anxiety reduce blood flow to the heart, which leads to high blood pressure and an increase in levels of stress hormones like cortisol, adding more risk to heart health.

How To Keep Your Heart Healthy During Menopause?

Menopause is difficult for every woman, but making some lifestyle alterations can not only reduce the risk of heart ailments, it can also improve your quality of life.

Switch To A Heart-Healthy Diet : Yes, your diet plays a vital role during menopause. Bid adieu to fats and try to include more fibre, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Reduce the consumption of salt, sugar, and processed food. Opt for lean meats and low-fat dairy as they can also help with your heart health.
Physical Activity Is A Must: The American Heart Association recommends that women going through menopause engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. Whether it’s walking, cycling, dancing, or jogging, you should set a goal to exercise at least five times a week.
Reduce/Avoid Consuming Tobacco: During menopause your body undergoes hormonal changes that are made worse by smoking. Try to reduce smoking so that you can eventually quit.
Visit Your Doctor Regularly: When you enter the menopause stage make sure you get a routine health checkup. It’s essential to monitor your health during this phase and seek treatment if necessary.
Deal With Stress In A Healthy Way: Stress leads to anxiety and depression, thereby increasing your chances of getting heart disease. Engage in activities like meditation and yoga, sleep well, and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Control Your Cholesterol Levels: HDL and LDL are two types of cholesterol levels. LDL is bad cholesterol, and HDL is good cholesterol. During menopause women lose estrogen which then gives rise to LDL levels in the body. Therefore you should keep your cholesterol levels in check by following a healthy diet and talking to your doctor about this.

Finally, pair these lifestyle changes with the use of a heart monitoring device to know exactly how you’re impacting your heart. Purchase the revolutionary Frontier X2 and be on your way to a healthier tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions on Menopause :

What Are The Signs of Menopause?

Hot Flushes, Night Sweats, Difficulty Sleeping, Reduced Sex Drive, Mood Swings & Weight Gain.

Does Menopause Affect Heart Health?

Due To The Loss Of Estrogen and Increase In Hormonal Changes, Menopause Increases The Risk Of Women Getting Cardiovascular Diseases.

Ways To Keep Your Heart Healthy During Menopause?

Quit Smoking, Follow A Healthy Diet, Exercise, and Don’t Miss Out On Your Regular Health Checkups.

Menopause Age In Women?

Women in their early 50s start experiencing menopause. In some cases, women go into the menopause phase in their mid-40s as well.

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The Age-Old Debate of Strength Training Vs Cardio – Which is Better for the Heart?

Given that your heart has a 24*7 job, and a very important one at that, you must keep this vital organ at the peak of its functioning for as long as you can. When it comes to heart health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in keeping cardiovascular diseases at bay. One of the pillars of such a healthy lifestyle is exercise. Therefore, it’s safe to say that almost every type of exercise aids heart health, and according to the American Heart Organization (ref. link), a sedentary lifestyle can actually put your heart health at risk.

While it is true that almost all exercise is good for you, it’s important to understand how different exercise affects the body. Experts suggest that cardio and strength training are complementary to one another, and engaging in one should not affect your engagement in the other. According to a US News Health article (ref. link), both forms of exercise keep us fit and make daily activities easier. For example, consistent cardio makes tasks like standing for long periods, walking the dog, or running to catch a bus much easier, while on the other hand, spending time with strength training lowers the effort needed to climb a flight of stairs, pick up grocery bags, and do common household chores.

What are Cardio Exercises?

Cardio or cardiovascular exercises are typically those that are designed to get your heart rate up. They are also referred to as aerobic exercise and are mostly incorporated into a weight loss routine. According to one article (ref. link), cardiovascular exercise relies on the body’s ability to use oxygen during the exercise session. Common types of cardio exercises include cycling, swimming, running, and walking.

Are Cardio Exercises Good for the Heart?

Cardio exercises improve blood circulation, which helps in lowering blood pressure and reducing heart rate. Johns Hopkins Medicine (ref. link) believes that engaging in aerobic activities can control blood glucose levels and thereby reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Cardio exercises put the same muscles to use by engaging in repetitive movements, making the heart beat faster. According to an article (ref. link), regular cardio workouts can help in strengthening the blood vessels, improving oxygen flow, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of heart disease.

What are Strength Training Exercises?

Strength training, also known as resistance training, is designed to improve muscle strength and endurance. It is typically done by overloading a group of muscles for a selected amount of time. These exercises are often linked with weight lifting but other common strength training exercises include lunges, squats, push-ups, bicep curls, crunches, and more.

Benefits of Strength Training on the Heart

According to research (ref. link), strength training exercises help in improving circulation and releasing oxygen in all parts of the body. It also shows that weight training exercises reduce the risk of a heart stroke or attack. According to this Hopkins Medicine article (ref. link), strength training exercises have a specific impact on body weight. They help reduce fat and create leaner muscle mass, which is good for a healthy heart as this helps raise HDL and lower LDL.

What Kind of Exercise is Good for Heart Health?

We can safely conclude that both cardio exercise and strength training exercises affect your heart health positively. Research (ref. link) has shown that either type of activity is beneficial for the overall fitness of the heart. One article (ref. link) determines that cardiovascular exercises impact the heart more directly since those help lower the heart rate, while strength training exercises benefit the heart more indirectly. By increasing muscle mass, strength training exercise helps reduce blood pressure thereby helping the heart. Experts believe (ref. link) that to maximize the benefits and keep the heart at its fittest, people should incorporate both cardio and strength training exercises in their workout regime. People who combine the two exercises seem to experience greater health improvements than those who do either of the two exercises only.

Finally, pair your new and improved workout schedule with the use of a heart monitoring device to know exactly how you’re impacting your heart. Purchase the revolutionary Frontier X2 and be on your way to a healthier tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions on Strength Training :

Is Strength Training Enough For Heart Health?

While strength training helps with weight management, controlling cholesterol levels, and lowering blood pressure, it is advised to combine strength training exercises with other cardio exercises for optimal results.

Which Type of Exercise is Best for the Heart?

A combination of strength training and cardio training is best to keep the heart fit. The most important thing for heart health is regular exercise. Any type of exercise is linked to improving heart health.

Does Cardio Strengthen Your Heart?

Regular cardio can help in strengthening the heart and blood vessels. It can also help in lowering blood sugar levels and managing cholesterol.

Can Too Much Cardio Damage the Heart?

Engaging in too much cardio can make the metabolism slow and the weight loss journey also gradual. The rate at which calories are burned is also reduced thus risking weight gain and negatively impacting the heart.

What Happens If You Train Your Muscles Every Day?

Undergoing strength training exercises daily can have a negative impact on the overall fitness of the body. Using the same muscles, again and again, does not give them enough time to repair, thus slowing down the benefits and risking pain or injury.

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