Do you go to the gym and exercise every day? This is not a guarantee for heart health

You may regularly go to the gym, exercise every week, and have a suitable weight, but still be at risk of heart disease. Cardiologists in the UAE say that a fit appearance does not necessarily mean a healthy heart and blood vessels. According to doctors, high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and some genetic factors can remain asymptomatic for years. For this reason, individuals in their 30s and 40s should not assume that being young and physically active keeps them away from heart disease. One cardiologist states that some hereditary conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia and elevated Lp(a) levels can increase the risk of heart disease without causing any specific symptoms. Another cardiologist mentions seeing patients in their 30s and 40s who appeared completely healthy, exercised, and had normal weight, but after the first chest pain discovered severe artery blockage. According to doctors, family history, smoking or vaping, diabetes, high blood pressure, chronic stress, poor sleep, and hereditary cholesterol issues are factors that can increase the risk of heart disease. Even a routine cholesterol test does not always provide a complete picture. Cholesterol levels may appear normal, but Lp(a) can be high; a hereditary factor associated with increased risk of heart attack and stroke. ApoB testing and, in some individuals, coronary calcium scans can provide more information about vascular status. Doctors emphasize that this does not mean all individuals in their 30s or 40s need advanced cardiac testing. However, it is better for them to know their blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, take family history seriously, and consult with a doctor about their personal risk. Additionally, heart attack symptoms do not always start with severe chest pain. Feelings of pressure or heaviness in the chest, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, or pain and discomfort in the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw can also be warning signs. In women, unusual fatigue, weakness, palpitations, or dizziness may also be symptoms. Source: Gulf Times