India accounts for one-fifth of the 17.9 million cardiovascular related deaths globally. 

Many of these take place among younger generations.

Dr Rajnish Sardana, senior cardiologist at Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, explains why this might happen.

“When there is a stoppage or interruption in the blood supply to the heart muscles, it causes chest pain and heaviness. This, if not immediately relieved, will lead to permanent damage to the heart,” says Dr Sardana.

He also adds that lifestyle is the most important cause that contributes to such instances, especially for the younger generation.

“In developed countries, while the number of such cases are decreasing, in developing countries like India, it is increasing,” he says.

In recent years, increased stress, smoking, and early diabetes have been contributing factors for people becoming more prone to heart attacks.

In recent years, increased stress, smoking, and early diabetes have been contributing factors for people becoming more prone to heart attacks. 

Moreover, excessive gymming if you have pre-existing heart conditions or have suffered damage to the heart can also cause heart attacks, Dr Sardana says.

He also notes that those who have not completely recovered from COVID-19 are susceptible to heart ailments, irrespective of age.

Severe chest pain and perspiration that lasts for more than 10 minutes are signs of cardiac arrest.

In such cases, remember to rush to the nearest hospital and go through an ECG immediately.

In such cases, remember to rush to the nearest hospital and go through an ECG immediately.