Heart attack prevention starts with recognizing key risk factors. While some, like age and family history, can’t be changed, others, such as exercise and diet, can be improved with healthier habits.
Heart attacks are a widespread issue in the U.S., affecting around 805,000 people annually.
The American Heart Association also notes that one in five survivors is hospitalized for another heart attack within five years.
Understanding these risks is a crucial step toward better heart health.
Worrying about a second heart attack is natural, but simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk.
Doctors recommend daily habits that can keep the heart strong and improve overall health:
1. Stop smoking
Smoking causes inflammation in the body, which can damage arteries and increase blood clotting, raising the risk of a heart attack, says Dr. Matthew Saybolt, medical director of the structural heart disease program at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Dr. George Sokos, chair of WVU Heart and Vascular Institute-Cardiology, warns that smoking is even more dangerous when combined with other risk factors. “It really makes everything worse,” he said.
Quitting isn’t easy because smoking is an addiction, Sokos added. However, he encourages people to seek medical support, as doctors can connect them with resources to help them stop.
2. Watch your diet
A heart-healthy diet is crucial for heart attack prevention, especially for those who’ve had one before. The American Heart Association suggests focusing on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, nuts, and lean meats.
Saybolt highlights that a balanced diet helps control cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight, all of which are important for heart health. While Sokos notes that a perfect diet isn’t always possible, cutting back on fatty and processed foods can still significantly lower the risk of another heart attack.
3. Take your medications
Health conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can significantly increase the risk of a heart attack, according to the Mayo Clinic. Doctors say medications can help manage these risks.
“There’s a variety of pills that we give people that have been proven to lower cholesterol, prevent scar tissue from building up in the heart, prevent heart failure from happening,” Saybolt explained.
Sokos adds that newer weight-loss medications are also proving beneficial. He explains that while obesity is a significant concern, these treatments aid in weight loss but also help protect heart health.
4. Stay active
Staying active is an essential part of heart attack prevention. Still, the right exercise plan depends on the individual, says Sokos. While some may do well with a daily walk, others can handle more intense workouts.
For heart attack survivors, Sokos recommends cardiac rehab. This program helps patients safely regain strength without putting too much strain on the heart.
No matter the approach, he stresses that regular movement is key to keeping the heart strong and healthy.
5. Don’t miss a checkup
Recovering from a heart attack requires lifelong care, with a strong focus on prevention to lower the risk of future episodes, says Dr. Matthew Saybolt.
Dr. George Sokos notes that while many patients follow their treatment plans at first, some struggle to stay consistent over time, often due to fear or anxiety. However, regular checkups, staying active, and taking prescribed medications play a key role in keeping the heart healthy.
He also stresses that heart care is a team effort. While doctors provide guidance, patients must stay engaged and informed to manage their health effectively.
Saybolt reassures patients that some heart issues come naturally with aging, even for healthy ones. Fortunately, medical advancements offer many solutions to help people maintain a strong heart as they age.
Here are the 10 rules for heart attack prevention, according to Dr. Mike Hansen, MD:
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