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Heart Health: Beyond the Numbers
4 Dec
Summary
- A blood pressure reading of 116/71 mmHg is considered normal and healthy.
- Heart attacks can occur even with normal blood pressure due to other risk factors.
- Regular check-ups for cholesterol, blood sugar, and stress are crucial for heart health.
A blood pressure reading of 116/71 mmHg falls within the normal and healthy range, indicating effective heart function. However, medical professionals emphasize that normal blood pressure does not guarantee immunity from heart attacks. Various other risk factors, such as artery blockages, elevated cholesterol levels, smoking, diabetes, and family history, can contribute to cardiovascular issues.
Experts highlight that individuals with seemingly perfect readings can still develop heart problems due to lifestyle choices and underlying metabolic factors. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor more than just blood pressure. Regular health check-ups, including tests for cholesterol levels (lipid profile) and electrocardiograms (ECGs), are recommended for early detection of potential issues.
Beyond blood pressure, key indicators to monitor include cholesterol, blood sugar levels, waist circumference, and stress. Unmanaged stress and sleep deprivation can elevate stress hormones, indirectly impacting heart health. Prompt medical attention is advised for symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, while maintaining healthy habits and regular check-ups provides peace of mind.
