In the wake of the tragic passing of Pepperfry co-founder Ambareesh Murty due to a sudden cardiac arrest at the age of 51, it’s imperative that we reflect on the silent killer lurking in our midst: Atherosclerosis. [Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambareesh_Murty ]
Atherosclerosis, or the hardening of arteries, is a disease that often goes unnoticed until it strikes with a vengeance. Shockingly, 50% of men and 33% of women first encounter cardiac symptoms as ‘Death’ before reaching the age of 65. Unlike the telltale signs of chest pains, nausea, or left shoulder discomfort, a cardiac arrest can happen without any warning.
This disease, responsible for 25% of all deaths in India and worldwide, is a formidable adversary, surpassing even the threat of breast cancer for women. It’s a relentless condition, with the potential to manifest in one’s teens, but taking years to fully develop.
But here’s the good news: time is on your side. Atherosclerosis is not an immediate death sentence like some other diseases. To protect yourself and your loved ones, understanding its pathology is crucial.
Atherosclerosis is, at its core, a repair process gone awry. It starts with lipids, essential for life, transported in the blood vessels. These lipids sometimes collide with vessel surfaces, penetrating them and causing damage. Over time, the repair mechanism kicks in, leading to the narrowing of vessels, blockages, and a host of fatal consequences.
Unlike the stealthy progression of cancer, Atherosclerosis can be detected early. The first step is to assess your family’s genetic history. Knowing if early Atherosclerosis-related deaths occurred among your relatives is vital. If they did, the odds are stacked against you, but even if not, you still fall within the 50% or 33% risk group.
There are additional risk factors to consider, such as age, smoking, blood pressure, LDL-C and apo B levels. These variables accelerate the disease’s progression, misleading you into a false sense of security.
To safeguard your health:
➯ Schedule regular check-ups with a qualified cardiologist, and consider getting an MRI to evaluate your heart’s condition.
➯ Monitor your LDL-C levels, aim for <70, measure apoB levels for a better prediction, aiming for <65, and keep triglycerides under control (<100).
➯ Quit smoking immediately, as it weakens vessel surfaces, making them more susceptible to damage.
➯ Regularly check your blood pressure and take appropriate measures, including medication, as even a slight increase can accelerate damage.
➯ Reduce sugar intake, as obesity and diabetes are known accelerators of Atherosclerosis.
➯ Prioritize sleep by aiming for 8 hours, which can significantly reduce blood pressure, blood sugar, and stress.
➯ Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, as it’s your heart’s best friend.
Understanding the genetic predisposition to Atherosclerosis Do you share the same concern?
For expert guidance and in-depth insights into maintaining a healthy heart and preventing Atherosclerosis, consider consulting with a renowned cardiologist and heart specialist:
Dr. Puneet K. Verma With a distinguished background, including MD, DNB, DM, FCSI, FSCAI, FACC, and FESC qualifications, Dr. Verma is a trusted authority in the field of cardiology. You can find more about his expertise and services by visiting his official profile at LinkedIn or official website:. Dr. Verma’s extensive knowledge and experience make him a valuable resource in your journey toward optimal heart health,whether you’re in need of a cardiologist or an interventional cardiologist in Mohali.
If you found this information valuable, please share it to help others mitigate the risks associated with Atherosclerosis. It’s time we prioritise heart health and well-being. 💓
#HeartHealth #AtherosclerosisAwareness
