How to Avoid a Heart Attack

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack is when part of the heart muscle is damaged or dies because it is not receiving oxygen. Oxygen is carried to the heart by the arteries. Each one of us may have one or more risk factors.

My father-in-law was hearing an early morning mass when had a heart attack back in 1996. It was a kind of shock to us knowing that he doesn't smoke and drink alcohol, and he exercises regularly. He is also very conscious of what he eats and religiously follows a good and healthy diet.

The Angiogram showed that 5 of his arteries were blocked and was immediately recommended for a heart by-pass operation. He never paid too much attention because he believed that it can be cured. No amount of persuasion made him undergo the much needed surgery.

A few months later, he had his executive check-up. His physician never allowed him to leave the hospital. He was immediately scheduled for surgery. Luckily, one of the best cardiologists was in the country. He performed the multiple by-pass operation. The open-heart surgery was a success. After only a month of recuperation he is as good as new.

So here are some tips I found that will help us prevent heart attacks.

1. When Taking a bath, wet below your belly button (navel) first, not your head.
2. When you're really exhausted or stressed, don't wet your head.
3. Avoid cold foods and drinks.
4. Rub hot liniment nightly on your chest.
5. Lose weight if you're overweight. Brisk walking for at least 20 minutes is a good idea.
6. Eat a healthy diet. Cut back on foods high in saturated fats and sodium. Limit the amount of fast food you eat.
   
7. Check your cholesterol level. Eating oatmeal everyday helps reduce high cholesterol level.
8. Drink alcohol in moderation. Large amount can increase blood pressure, it can also damage the heart muscle and liver.
9. Quit smoking.