Dr. Mohd Sadiq Azam
MBBS, MD(Med), DNB(Cardio), CCDS, FSCAI (USA)
Cardiology
We would have believed that heart attacks would be something we hear about happening to older people. But now there are more and more reports of young adults in their 20s and 30s—healthy and physically fit, as far as we know—dying from cardiac arrests. It’s scary, horrific, and terrifying. So what is it?
Discuss the most prevalent reasons for this unforeseen spike in heart attacks among young individuals and how to avoid them.
Fast-spurred, stressful Lives
Kids nowadays are always stressed—striving towards professional goals, taking care of finances, or coping with the world’s pressures. Chronic stress slowly drains the heart in the long run. Ongoingly available stress hormones such as cortisol can increase blood pressure, compromise blood vessels, and cause inflammation—all of which represent an immensely significant risk factor for heart disease.
Poor lifestyle habits
Our eating habits have dramatically changed over the last few decades. Late-night snacks, fast food, packaged dinners, and pop are common in our lives. These result in weight gain, cholesterol build-up, and hyperglycemia—both of which make the heart weaken to attack, even in young adults. Missing in most people’s lives is a balance—proper, home-cooked nutrition, physical exercise, and an evening’s sleep.
Physical inactivity
Due to working from home, telework, television time spent hours and hours in front of, and phone time, the majority of young adults spend a large part of their life sitting down. Sedentary living is bleak for the heart and results in the risks for diabetes, obesity, and hypertension—all key cardiovascular disease risk factors.
A small amount of daily 30 minutes of moderate exercise—like walking, biking, or yoga—can do a great deal of good for the heart.
Smoking, vaping, and substance abuse
Teenagers continue to smoke and vape despite increasing awareness. Vaping is no longer viewed by the majority as the “healthier” option but it is not safe either. Nicotine and other chemicals constrict blood vessels and increase heart rate, doubling the risk of a cardiac incident. Alcohol and drugs only add to that risk, further taxing the cardiovascular system.
Hidden health diseases
One of the most terrifying facts is that the majority of young adults have undiagnosed illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. So-called silent killers are notorious for having no warning sign until one dies of a heart attack. Early diagnosis by regular checkups can detect such diseases early enough and treat them before they are mixed up further.
Family history and genetics
If there is heart disease in your family, then of course you’re at higher risk. Even if you have a very healthy lifestyle, you’re at risk of heart issues purely because of your genes. If you do know something about your medical family history, then you and your doctor can take steps early to reduce your own risk.
Ignoring early warning signs
Teenagers also ignore warning signs like shortness of breath, chest tightness, fatigue, or occasional dizziness. They are young and think they have nothing wrong with their heart but delay going to see a doctor for months. Delay becomes a turning point for them.
Early diagnosis saves lives—do not ignore your body’s signals.
Take Action, Not Chances
Heart disease is no longer an “old folks’ disease.” Now more than ever, it’s more important than ever that young adults be aware, get the occasional check-up, eat sensibly, exercise daily, and manage stress in positive ways.
Mythri Hospital: Taking Care of Young Hearts Too
Prevention is as close to our heart in Mythri Hospital as it is to cure. Our cardiologists are always prepared to detect and treat any heart condition of any age group—especially young adults who may not even know they are at risk.
We offer:
- Preventive heart tests
- 24/7 emergency heart attack and cardiac arrest facilities
- Highly sophisticated diagnostic methods (ECG, Echo, TMT, blood tests)
- Dietary and lifestyle modification counselling
- Personalised cardiac care plans
Your heart doesn’t wait—neither should you.
Visit Mythri Hospital for outstanding, compassionate care that focuses on your well-being.
Know. Take care. Be heart-healthy.