Myocardial infarction is a life-threatening condition that results from the acute interruption of blood flow to the heart. Surviving a heart attack is a significant achievement, but it does not end there.
About 20% of people who have experienced a myocardial infarction will have a second one within five years. The risk of a subsequent heart attack varies from person to person. However, certain factors increase the risk of a second infarction. In this article, we will discuss the most critical factors that increase the risk of a second heart attack.
Age
Age is a risk factor for a second infarction. Older adults are more likely to have a myocardial infarction. Once a person has experienced a heart attack, the risk of recurrence increases significantly, especially in those over 65 years of age.
Therefore, older adults need to take extra precautions to prevent a second infarction, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and taking prescribed medications.
Gender
Globally, more men than women have myocardial infarction. However, women have a higher risk of a second heart attack than men. Women who have experienced an infarction have a greater risk of a subsequent heart attack within the first year compared to men.
Additionally, women are more likely to have a fatal second infarction. Therefore, it is crucial for women to pay attention to their health and get routine assessments to prevent and manage infarction.
Smoking
Smoking is a risk factor for a first infarction and increases the risk of a second infarction. Smoking damages the blood vessels and promotes plaque buildup in the arteries.
Smoking cessation can reduce the risk of a second infarction and improve overall health.
Diabetes
Diabetes increases the risk of a first and second infarction. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup in the arteries and decrease blood flow to the heart.
Diabetes also increases the risk of other risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making it essential to manage diabetes to prevent a second infarction.
High cholesterol levels
High cholesterol levels contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack. After experiencing a heart attack, high cholesterol levels increase the risk of a subsequent infarction.
Keeping cholesterol levels in control with medication, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can reduce the risk of a second infarction.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure damages the blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup. It also reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the heart. After a heart attack, people with high blood pressure are at greater risk of having a second infarction.
Therefore, controlling blood pressure with medication, diet, exercise, and reducing stress is essential for preventing a second infarction.
Obesity
Obesity is another risk factor for a second myocardial infarction. Adipose tissue releases hormones and inflammatory substances that contribute to the formation of plaque buildup in the arteries.
Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk of a second infarction and improve overall health.
Sedentary lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for a second infarction. Exercise strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation, reducing the risk of a second infarction.
Engaging in regular physical activity such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of a second infarction.
Family history
Family history contributes to the risk of a first and second infarction. A family history of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction, angina, heart failure, or stroke increases the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack.
People with a family history of cardiovascular diseases should take precautionary steps to prevent a second infarction.
Stress and depression
Stress and depression are risk factors for a second infarction. Stress and depression can lead to physical and emotional changes that increase the risk of heart disease.
Managing stress and depression through relaxation techniques, therapy, and medication can reduce the risk of a second infarction.
