Here's Who's Most at Risk for the 'New' Type of Heart Disease Researchers Have Just Identified

Urgent Warning To 1 In 4 'healthy' Adults At Risk Of Undiagnosed Killer That 'ups Risk Of Heart Attack And Stroke'

OVER one in four seemingly healthy adults could be living with an undiagnosed heart condition, scientists have warned.

Heart valve disease - when one or more of the flaps directing your blood flow don't work - places extra strain on the heart and can up your risk of heart attacks and strokes.

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Symptoms of heart valve disease can include breathlessness, chest pain and feeling weak or dizzyCredit: Getty

Now, research has for the first time revealed the number of Brits who unknowingly have the condition.

Researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA) f carried out heart scans on almost 4,500 people aged over 60, who where outwardly healthy and had no symptoms.

Over a quarter - 28 per cent - were found to have previously undetected heart valve disease.

Study author Vassilios Vassiliou, a clinical professor of cardiac medicine at UEA's Norwich medical school, said: "This study focused on understanding how widespread heart valve issues of any severity are among healthy, symptom-free adults without any known heart diseases.

Read more on heart disease

"We examined almost 4,500 individuals aged 60 and older from three regions in the UK: Norfolk, West Midlands and Aberdeen, using echocardiography, which is an ultrasound of the heart.

"Our findings showed that more than 28 per cent of these adults had some form of heart valve disease, although reassuringly it was only mild in the majority of the cases.

"The data also indicated that age was the main factor associated with these heart valve problems, meaning that the older a person is, the higher their chance of having a significant valve issue."

Your blood flows around your heart and the rest of your body in one direction, like a one-way traffic system.

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Your four heart valves - pulmonary, tricuspid, aortic and mitral - open and close like little doors with every heart beat and control the direction of your blood flow, stopping it from coursing backwards.

Heart valve disease usually involves one or more valves not opening fully or not closing properly.

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This can block or restrict the flow of blood or lead to blood leaking back into the heart instead of forwards into the body.

Co-lead author Prof Michael Frenneaux, of the Royal Brompton Hospital, part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and Imperial College London, said: "These problems can put extra strain on the heart and make the heart work harder.

"Over time, it can increase the risk of having a heart attack, stroke and other heart conditions."

Symptoms can include feeling breathless, chest pain, feeling weak or dizzy, swollen ankles and feet, feeling more tired than usual and chest or neck palpitations. 

Researchers examined 4,237 asymptomatic patients over the age of 60 who were invited through their general practices to take part in the study between 2006 and 2017.

They were evaluated with a health questionnaire, clinical examination and transthoracic echocardiography, which is an ultrasound of the heart.

Heart valve disease was diagnosed in 28.2 per cent of the patients.

One in 42 of the patients over 60 were found to have moderate to severe disease - this rose to one in 15 in patients 75 and older.

Prof Vassiliou said: "The diagnosis of heart valve disease mostly relies on transthoracic echocardiography, however this is normally only carried out if symptoms are reported or if an unusual murmur is heard during a physical examination. 

"This can be challenging in the elderly because mild symptoms may be masked by reduced physical activity and impaired mobility. 

"This study reveals that many older adults have heart valve issues, even if they don't show any symptoms and we would suggest that if people do develop any new symptoms or signs that could indicate heart disease to discuss this with their doctor. 

"As our population ages, this information can help healthcare providers understand the scale of valve disease and streamline routine care methods and screening programs to ensure that we can cope with the demand in the future. 

"This way, they can better identify and help those at risk before problems become serious." 

Further studies are needed to see how screening could be used to spot and help manage the disease, the paper published in he European Heart Journal noted.

James Leiper, Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation, described the findings as important and called for research to find ways to identify more people with heart valve disease.

The 7 lifestyle tips for better heart health

MAKING a few simple tweaks to your daily habits could make a difference to your heart health.

Snack on nuts - 'Walnuts are a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to decrease inflammation in the arteries and protect the heart,' explains British Dietetic Association spokesperson Gaynor Bussell

Be a social butterfly - Loneliness is linked to hardening of the arteries, which leads to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease, says social psychologist John Cacioppo from the University of Chicago

Cut down on booze - Drinking too much alcohol can cause abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, damage to the heart muscle and other diseases such as stroke, liver problems and some cancers

Healthy food prep - Bake, grill, steam, boil or poach food instead of frying, and flavour with spices and herbs instead of salt

Take a breath - Give meditation and breathing exercises a go, as research has found people with heart disease who practised Transcendental Meditation for just 15 minutes a day can cut their risk of heart attack and stroke by half

A sprinkle of flaxseeds - 'Flaxseeds, also known as linseeds, are little seeds that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids. So, like nuts, they can help a little in lowering cholesterol,' explains Gaynor Bussell

Lose some weight - 'Experts have found evidence that losing just 5-10% of your body weight if you are overweight or obese improves your metabolic profile. This means that if you have high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, these levels come down,' explains Gaynor Bussell

Source: Age UK

7 Common Symptoms Of A Heart Attack Families Should Know

Heart attacks are a leading cause of death worldwide, and understanding the common symptoms can be crucial in saving lives. Early detection and prompt medical attention can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery. This article will delve into the seven common heart attack symptoms that families should be aware of, helping them to act quickly and effectively in an emergency.

Introduction

Heart disease is a silent killer that often strikes without warning. The ability to recognize the early signs of a heart attack can mean the difference between life and death. This article aims to educate families on the seven common heart attack symptoms, providing them with the knowledge to respond promptly and seek medical help. By understanding these symptoms, families can be better prepared to support their loved ones in crisis.

1. Chest pain or discomfort

The most common and well-known symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. This sensation often feels like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. It can last for more than a few minutes or go away and come back. While chest pain is a classic sign, not all heart attacks involve severe chest pain. Some individuals, especially women, may experience more subtle symptoms.

2. Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath can occur with or without chest pain and is a significant indicator of a heart attack. This symptom may present itself during physical activity or while resting. It occurs because the heart is not pumping blood efficiently, leading to a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream. If someone experiences unexplained shortness of breath, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

3. Nausea, indigestion, or abdominal pain

Nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain can also be symptoms of a heart attack. These signs are often overlooked as they can be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues. However, if these symptoms are persistent or severe, especially when accompanied by other signs like chest pain or shortness of breath, they should not be ignored.

4. Pain in the arm, neck, jaw, or back

Pain or discomfort in other upper body areas, such as the arms, neck, jaw, or back, can indicate a heart attack. This pain might start in the chest, spread to these areas, or occur independently. The pain is often described as radiating or spreading and may come and go.

5. Cold sweat

Breaking out in a cold sweat is another common symptom of a heart attack. This type of sweating is often described as clammy and differs from sweating due to physical exertion or heat. It can respond to the body's stress and the heart's struggle to pump blood efficiently. If someone experiences an unexplained cold sweat, especially with other symptoms, it is essential to seek medical help immediately.

6. Fatigue

Unusual fatigue is a symptom that is more common in women than men when it comes to heart attacks. This extreme tiredness can occur days or even weeks before a heart attack. It is often described as feeling overwhelmingly exhausted without an apparent reason. If someone experiences this type of fatigue, it is essential to take it seriously and consult a healthcare professional.

7. Lightheadedness or dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy can also be a symptom of a heart attack. This sensation might be accompanied by a feeling of fainting or passing out. It occurs due to a drop in blood pressure caused by the heart's inability to pump blood effectively. If someone suddenly feels dizzy or lightheaded, especially with other symptoms, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention.

Recognizing and responding to heart attack symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack is vital for prompt and effective response. The seven common symptoms discussed—chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea or indigestion, pain in the arm, neck, jaw, or back, cold sweat, fatigue, and lightheadedness—can help families identify a potential heart attack and act swiftly. By being aware of these signs, families can support their loved ones better and potentially save lives.

Understanding these symptoms is just the first step. It's equally important to maintain regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, and lead a heart-healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking. In case of any doubt, it is always better to err on caution and seek medical advice immediately.

Knowing heart attack symptoms empowers families to be vigilant and proactive, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for those at risk. Stay informed, stay prepared, and take heart health seriously to protect your loved ones.

This story was created using AI technology.

Many Older Adults Are Taking Aspirin To Prevent A Heart Attack — Despite The Risks

Millions of older Americans are taking a daily dose of aspirin to lower their risk of having a heart attack or stroke for the first time -- even though they shouldn't, a new study finds.

Millions of older Americans are taking a daily dose of aspirin to lower their risk of having a heart attack or stroke for the first time — even though they shouldn't, a new study finds.

Nearly a third of adults 60 and older who don't have cardiovascular disease took aspirin in 2021, according to findings published Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Past research suggests that daily aspirin usage may increase the risk of internal bleeding.

Millions of older Americans are taking a daily dose of aspirin to lower their risk of having a heart attack or stroke for the first time — even though they shouldn't, a new study finds. Fizkes – stock.Adobe.Com

Cardiovascular disease refers to several conditions, including heart attack, heart failure, heart arrhythmias, vascular disease, congenital heart defects, stroke and high blood pressure. Heart disease causes the most deaths in the US, while stroke is the fifth leading cause of death.

Aspirin has been hailed for its ability to keep platelets from sticking together and forming a blood clot that can spur a heart attack or stroke.

However, recent research has found that the benefit was offset by the risk of bleeding in the brain or stomach — and guidelines were modified to discourage daily aspirin usage among people over 60 who are considered to be at low or moderate risk for heart disease.

Aspirin has been hailed for its ability to keep platelets from sticking together and forming a blood clot that can spur a heart attack or stroke. But recent research suggests that daily aspirin usage may increase the risk of internal bleeding. Betzalit – stock.Adobe.Com

Aspirin is still recommended for people who have had a stroke, heart attack or other heart problems.

The authors of the study published Monday found that aspirin usage declined from 2018 to 2019 after the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association changed their recommendations.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. Rawpixel.Com – stock.Adobe.Com

Still, the researchers determined that 18.5 million Americans 60 and older took aspirin in 2021.

The study authors stress the "urgent need" for doctors to ask their older patients about aspirin usage and explain the benefits and risks to them.

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