Heart attacks are increasingly being reported among younger adults, with cardiologists treating patients in their 20s and 30s who sometimes appear completely healthy. Doctors point to smoking, unhealthy diets, stress, poor sleep, metabolic problems and inherited risks as contributing factors.
Dr Zakia Khan, Director of Interventional Cardiology at Fortis Hospital in Mumbai, treated an 18 year old heavy smoker who developed chest pain but initially ignored it. Dr Girish B Navasundi of Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore has also treated an 18 year old college student with complete blockage in one coronary artery. The patient smoked and used recreational drugs.
Why Young People Are At Risk:
Doctors say younger patients often mistake warning signs for acidity, gas, indigestion or muscle pain. Symptoms can include chest burning, pressure or tightness, but may also involve pain in the arms or upper back, unusual tiredness, jaw discomfort or difficulty burping.
Smoking is a common risk factor, while family history, unhealthy food, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and high blood pressure can also increase risk. Some young patients have clotting disorders or familial hypercholesterolaemia, an inherited condition linked to very high cholesterol.
Dr Navasundi says stress, smoking, poor sleep and lack of exercise are frequently seen among younger patients. He reports that at least 25 percent of his heart attack patients are below 40, while nearly 40 percent are below 50.
Fitness Is Not Enough
Doctors caution that regular gym workouts do not guarantee a healthy heart. Young people with a family history or other risk factors may benefit from a health assessment before beginning intense exercise such as marathon running or strenuous gym training. Depending on individual risk, doctors may recommend an ECG, echocardiogram, stress test, cholesterol testing and blood sugar evaluation.
Dr Khan says she has observed heart attacks occurring much earlier than traditionally expected over the past 10 to 15 years. Cardiologists stress that young age and physical fitness should not lead people to ignore possible heart symptoms.
