Dr Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director of Medanta Hospital, has highlighted the rising concern of heart diseases among young adults. Reports of heart attacks among younger individuals have raised alarms, prompting health experts to stress the importance of early heart checkups. Dr Trehan has stated that individuals with a family history of heart disease face a significantly higher risk.

He explained that if parents, grandparents, or uncles have a history of heart ailments, the likelihood of developing similar issues doubles compared to the average population. This hereditary factor underscores the need for proactive health measures especially for those under 25 years of age.

The Importance of Early Detection

Dr Trehan advocates for a first risk factor analysis or preventive checkup before reaching the age of 25. He emphasises that early detection can greatly enhance the management of potential heart diseases. He metaphorically referred to this process as creating a ‘horoscope of your heart and health’, implying the necessity of understanding one’s heart condition and risk factors at a young age.

He elaborated on the common symptoms indicative of heart issues, noting that blockages in the arteries often manifest during physical activities, such as brisk walking. Classic exertional angina, which presents as stress or discomfort during exercise, is a key symptom that requires immediate attention. Dr Trehan also mentioned that symptoms can vary, sometimes presenting as back pain or jaw pain rather than the more recognised chest pain.

For those at risk of heart conditions, he speaks on the basic medications that could be kept on hand. Aspirin, in particular, is recommended for individuals who have been diagnosed with heart disease. He suggests that taking half a tablet of Sorbitrate under the tongue during episodes of chest pain can be beneficial. He also mentioned a dose of 20 milligrams of Atorvastatin for those affected by heart disease.

Heart Health in Diabetic Patients

Dr Trehan pointed out the unique challenges faced by diabetic patients, who often experience delayed reactions to heart problems. As nerve endings are damaged due to diabetes, these individuals frequently do not receive pain signals that serve as warning signs of a heart attack. Therefore, he recommends that diabetic patients undergo regular echocardiograms to monitor their heart health, ideally every year, or every two years if stable.

He reiterated that many patients only discover serious heart issues, such as diminished heart function, during routine checks. Often, these patients report feeling short of breath before seeking medical help, only to find their heart function has significantly declined. This situation highlights the critical need for healthcare providers to actively guide diabetic patients toward consistent heart monitoring.

Dr Trehan concluded by emphasising the responsibility of healthcare professionals, particularly internists and diabetologists, to ensure comprehensive heart health assessments for their patients. Regular checkups are essential to prevent unnoticed damage and provide timely treatment, thereby safeguarding lives.

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