Get Heart Checkup Before 25, Says Medanta CMD Dr Trehan
Medanta CMD Dr Naresh Trehan urges youngsters to undergo preventive heart checkups before age 25, especially those with a family history.
In a growing concern for the youth, Medanta Hospital CMD Dr Naresh Trehan has issued a vital warning: do not wait for symptoms to appear. He urges individuals, particularly those with a family history of cardiac issues, to undergo their first preventive heart checkup before reaching the age of 25.
The Genetic Risk Factor
Dr Trehan highlighted that genetics play a massive role in determining cardiovascular health. If your parents, grandparents, or even an uncle have suffered from heart disease, your risk of developing the same condition is effectively double that of the average population. Early detection is the key to making the disease manageable and controllable.
Identifying Silent Killers: Symptoms and Signs
Heart disease often presents in ways that people do not immediately associate with the heart. Dr Trehan identified two primary categories of acquired diseases:
- Arterial Blockages: This often manifests as "exertional angina," where stress or pain is felt during physical activities like brisk walking. Interestingly, this pain does not always strike the chest; it can manifest as pain in the jaw or even the back.
- Valvular Disease: This is another common acquired condition that requires monitoring.
The Danger for Diabetics: A Failed Alarm System
One of the most critical warnings was directed toward patients living with diabetes. Dr Trehan explained that diabetes can damage the nerve endings responsible for transmitting pain signals from the heart. This means a patient might suffer a heart attack without feeling the traditional chest pain.
"Their alarm system has failed," Dr Trehan warned. Because they don't feel the pain, they may continue to suffer heart damage without realizing it. He strongly advises that diabetic patients undergo an echocardiogram annually, or every two years if their condition is stable, to ensure their heart function remains healthy.
The 20% Threshold: A Scary Reality
The consequences of ignoring these signs can be devastating. Dr Trehan noted that many patients arrive at his office with heart functions that have plummeted to just 20%, often only realizing something is wrong once they experience shortness of breath. This delay can be fatal.
Emergency Preparedness: What to Carry
For those known to be at high risk, Dr Trehan suggested carrying specific medications to manage symptoms during those crucial first hours of a cardiac event, following a doctor's consultation:
- Aspirin: Can be taken in the event of sudden chest pain.
- Sorbitrate: A half tablet can be placed under the tongue while resting.
- Atorvastatin: 20 milligrams can be taken as prescribed for those with known heart disease.