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Dr Sam Firoozi – a consultant cardiologist at the Harley Street Clinic (part of HCA Healthcare UK) – spoke exclusively to Express.co.uk about the heart disease that usually precedes a heart attack. “Coronary artery disease (CHD) occurs when the coronary arteries start to clog or block due to fatty deposits,” explained Dr Firoozi. “It’s important to look for the signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack or heart failure, which are life-threatening medical conditions.”
Symptoms of coronary heart disease can include:
- Chest pain, especially on exertion
- Shortness of breath on exertion
- Chest pain associated with discomfort in the left arm or jaw
- Weakness or dizziness on exertion.
Alcohol is a popular drink that may contribute to the development of coronary heart disease.
“Alcohol is a toxin,” said Dr Firoozi bluntly; it acts as a “depressant” for the muscles of the heart.
Drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase blood pressure, which is harmful to the circulatory system, thus increasing the risk of coronary heart disease.
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Another lifestyle choice to avoid is to smoke in any way – shisha, cigarettes, or roll-ups.
“Smoking greatly increases the risk of coronary heart disease,” said Dr Firoozi.
This is done “by making the blood more viscous … damaging the lining and architecture of the coronary arteries”.
This results in the formation of fatty deposits along the coronary arteries – the epitome of coronary artery disease.
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Another smart move is to deal with feelings of stress in a healthy way, which can otherwise lead to high blood pressure and coronary heart disease.
A person’s diet is also essential, as consuming “foods high in saturated fat and animal protein can lead to an increase in LDL. [low-density lipoprotein] cholesterol and triglycerides “.
LDL cholesterol and high triglycerides increase the risk of coronary heart disease, confirmed Dr Firoozi.
“Therefore, it is important to adhere to a balanced diet, making sure to eat plant-based products such as legumes, fruits and vegetables, lots of fiber and to avoid eating too much salt and sugar.”
Dr Firoozi continued, “Lack of exercise can contribute to the risk of developing coronary heart disease.
“Exercising can help your cardiovascular health by maintaining a healthy body weight and keeping blood pressure at a healthy level.”
Unmodifiable risk factors – which you just can’t change – include age and a family history of coronary heart disease.
“There are several different tests that can be performed to determine the health of a person’s heart,” said Dr Firoozi.
Cardiac tests include:
- An electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiogram
- CaRi-Heart.
An ECG
“This test is used to test your heart’s rhythm as well as its electrical activity,” said Dr. Firoozi.
An ECG can determine if someone has ever had a heart attack, coronary artery disease, abnormal heart rhythm, and signs of heart failure.
“These tests can be done if your doctor thinks you may be living with heart disease,” Dr Firoozi said.
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