Study Reveals Increased Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke with Three Common Symptoms

Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attack and stroke, is the leading cause of death worldwide.

While the risk factors for these conditions are well-known, a new study has discovered that three common symptoms could also increase the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. In this article, we’ll review the study’s findings and discuss what you can do to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Study

The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, analyzed over 100,000 participants from the UK Biobank database.

The participants reported their medical history, lifestyle habits, and any symptoms they had experienced in the past month. The researchers followed up with participants after an average of 7 years and discovered that those who reported experiencing three specific symptoms had a significantly higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

The Three Symptoms

1. Difficulty Sleeping: Participants who reported having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling tired had a 13% higher risk of cardiovascular disease than those who slept well.
2. Dizziness or Light-headedness: Those who experienced these symptoms had a 12% higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
3. Shortness of Breath: Participants who reported feeling breathless or having trouble catching their breath were 9% more likely to experience a heart attack or stroke.

Why These Symptoms Matter

The study authors believe that these symptoms are indicative of underlying health issues that could increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

For example, difficulty sleeping could be a sign of sleep apnea, which has been linked to hypertension and other cardiovascular problems. Dizziness or light-headedness could be a result of low blood pressure, which could lead to heart palpitations or fainting.

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Shortness of breath could be a sign of lung disease or heart failure, both of which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Reducing Your Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

If you have experienced any of the three symptoms mentioned in this study, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.

Additionally, there are steps you can take to reduce your overall risk of cardiovascular disease:.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, so it’s important to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, so quitting smoking can dramatically reduce your risk.
• Manage Chronic Conditions: If you have conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively.
• Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, so finding ways to reduce stress like meditation or exercise can be helpful.

Conclusion

The University of Edinburgh study found that difficulty sleeping, dizziness or light-headedness, and shortness of breath are all symptoms that could indicate an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider and take steps to reduce your overall risk of cardiovascular disease.