India has seen a surge in heart attack cases among young gym-goers, raising concerns about the factors contributing to this alarming trend. The root causes of this alarming phenomenon are multifaceted, combining intense exercise regimes, underlying health conditions, harmful lifestyle choices such as unhealthy diets and chronic stress.
With an increasing number of young people dying from heart attacks, it is important to understand the risks and preventative measures. We spoke to Dr Vivd Pratap Singh, Senior Consultant, Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi, to explore these issues in more detail.
What is the main factor behind the rise in heart attacks among gym-goers in India?
Dr. Singh: There are several contributing factors including intense training without proper conditioning, undiagnosed pre-existing conditions and lifestyle choices. In India, the problem may be more prevalent due to poor lifestyle habits, high stress levels and low awareness about preventive healthcare. The use of steroids to enhance performance also plays a key role. These disparities may be responsible for the higher incidence of heart diseases among young people compared to other countries.
What are the risk factors for having a heart attack while exercising, especially in young people?
Dr. Singh: Several risk factors increase the chances of having a heart attack while exercising, including diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking history, and a family history of heart disease. These conditions increase the strain on the heart, especially when undergoing strenuous physical activity.
Is excessive exercise a significant risk factor for heart disease, especially for people over 45?
Dr. Singh: Yes, over-exercising without proper rest puts a strain on the heart, especially as we age. People over 45 should be careful about over-training. Over-training can lead to extreme fatigue, chest pain, dizziness and irregular heartbeat – these are clear signs that the body is over-stressed.
What are the warning signs that you may have heart problems while exercising?
Dr. Singh: Warning signs include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, and palpitations. These should never be ignored, especially during or after exercise. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention.
How does underlying heart disease affect sudden heart attacks during exercise, and should high-risk people get tested before hitting the gym?
Dr. Singh: Undiagnosed cardiac conditions such as arrhythmias and coronary artery disease can significantly increase the risk of suffering a sudden heart attack while exercising. High-risk individuals, especially those with family history or other predisposing factors, should undergo pre-exercise screening such as an electrocardiogram and stress test to evaluate their cardiac health before undertaking any strenuous exercise.
How do lifestyle choices like diet, sleep and stress affect the risk of a heart attack?
Dr. Singh: Lifestyle choices are a big factor. Unhealthy diet, lack of sleep, and high stress levels contribute to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation, which increase the risk of heart attack. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential to reduce these risks, especially if you are engaged in strenuous exercise.
Can technology like heart rate monitors and fitness trackers help prevent heart attacks while exercising?
Dr. Singh: That’s correct. These devices track heart rate, stress levels, and recovery time to help gym-goers monitor their cardiac health. They can also detect abnormalities early so preventative measures can be taken before serious problems develop.
How important is nutrition and hydration in preventing heart attacks during exercise?
Dr. Singh: Proper nutrition and hydration are very important. They help maintain electrolyte balance, prevent dehydration, and reduce strain on the heart. If you don’t get enough nutrition and hydration, strenuous exercise can create imbalances that can worsen heart problems.
How do stress and mental health affect the risk of heart attack during physical activity?
Dr. Singh: Stress and poor mental health increase cortisol and adrenaline levels, putting extra strain on the heart. During exercise, these hormones increase your heart rate and blood pressure, making the heart work harder. Managing stress through mindfulness practices, adequate rest, and relaxation techniques is essential for heart health.
