About the Health Information

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle suddenly stops, usually due to a clot or plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. Without oxygen, heart tissue gets damaged.

Earlier, heart attacks were thought to affect only older adults. Today, more people in their 20s–40s are diagnosed with heart problems. Institutions like MGM Healthcare highlight the importance of preventive screenings to curb this growing issue.

Symptoms in young adults are often mistaken for stress, acidity, or tiredness. Recognising them early can save lives.

Watch for:

• Chest pain, tightness, or heaviness
• Pain spreads to the arm, neck, jaw, or back.
• Burning sensation in the upper abdomen
• Shortness of breath or dizziness
• Cold sweats, nausea, or fatigue

Note: Women may have symptoms like abdominal pain, indigestion, or unusual tiredness. If these occur, consult a cardiologist in Chennai for timely care.

Unhealthy Lifestyle: Poor diet, inactivity, obesity, and irregular sleep patterns.

Smoking or Substance Use: Cigarettes, vaping, and drugs like cocaine strain the heart.

Chronic Stress: Raises blood pressure and stress hormones

Hidden Conditions: High cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension often go undetected.

Family History: Increases genetic risk of early heart disease.

Chest pain or breathlessness prompts tests like:

• ECG: Detects irregular rhythms
• Blood Tests (Troponin): Identify muscle damage
• Echocardiogram / Angiography: Check blockages

If a heart attack is suspected, seek emergency help immediately. Treatment includes clot-dissolving medicines, oxygen, and angioplasty or stenting. Hospitals in Chennai offer 24/7 advanced cardiac and emergency care.

After treatment, focus on long-term heart care:

Medications: Control cholesterol and blood pressure.

Rehabilitation: Guided exercise and counselling to rebuild strength.

• Eat a balanced, heart-healthy diet
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.
• Exercise regularly
• Manage stress through yoga or meditation.

For severe or multiple blockages, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is recommended to improve blood flow and heart function.

Simple habits can protect your heart long-term:

• Exercise 2–3 hours weekly
• Eat nutritious, high-fibre meals.
• Avoid tobacco and drugs.
• Go for regular heart checkups.
• Manage work stress effectively.

In busy cities like Chennai, young adults face growing heart health risks. Prevention is key.

Heart attacks are increasingly affecting younger people due to stress and lifestyle factors. Awareness, early diagnosis, and preventive care can save lives. If you or someone you know experiences chest discomfort or breathlessness, contact our hospital for immediate evaluation and guidance.