Heart Health Guide

Our heart is the most reliable engine, working non-stop. It beats about 100,000 times a day and pumps thousands of liters of blood through the body, without a single "break."

We often forget that this powerful organ needs attention too.

September 29 is World Heart Day. It reminds us that cardiovascular health comes from our everyday choices, listening to our body's signals, and responding correctly when it matters.

Body language: which symptoms mean you should see a doctor?

Time is the most important tool in managing heart disease. Our body often gives early warning signs that must never be ignored.

Book a consultation with a cardiologist if you notice:

• Changes in heart rhythm: a feeling of "skipped beats," a sudden racing heartbeat, or, the opposite, an unusually slow heartbeat.
• Shortness of breath during ordinary activity: if climbing stairs used to be easy but now you tire unusually quickly or struggle to breathe.
• Swelling in the lower limbs: periodic or constant swelling of the ankles and shins (especially if it's already there in the morning).
• Fluctuating blood pressure: frequently high (above 140/90) or low readings.
• Unexplained chronic fatigue: unaccountable weakness and lack of energy during a normal daily routine.

🚨 Call an ambulance (112) immediately if you experience:

• Severe pain, pressure, or a squeezing sensation behind the breastbone, which may spread to the left arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back.
• Sudden shortness of breath or air hunger, even at complete rest.
• Sudden severe dizziness, loss of coordination, or clouding or loss of consciousness.
• Cold sweat, sudden severe weakness, and nausea.

The golden minutes: how to help a family member during a heart attack

During a heart attack (myocardial infarction), every second counts. If you notice that someone near you has alarming symptoms, act quickly and keep a cool head:

1. Call 112 immediately: clearly describe the symptoms and give the exact address to the operator.
2. Put the person in the right position: sit them down or lay them in a semi-sitting position (back raised, head and shoulders supported, knees slightly bent). This noticeably reduces the strain on the heart.
3. Make sure they get enough air: loosen tight clothing (collar, belt) and open a window.
4. Stay calm: panic raises the heart rate and increases the body's need for oxygen. Reassure the person that help is on the way.
5. Medication: if a cardiologist has already prescribed nitroglycerin for the person, help them take 1 tablet under the tongue. Do not give nitroglycerin if the person has low blood pressure or impaired consciousness. If they are not allergic, they may chew 1 aspirin tablet (300 mg) before the ambulance arrives.
6. Monitor their condition: if the person loses consciousness and stops breathing, immediately start CPR (chest compressions) and continue until medics arrive.

Prevention: the best investment in your health

The good news is that most heart disease can be prevented. You don't need to change your life radically. What matters is taking small but consistent steps:

• Keep moving: 30 minutes of moderate activity a day, such as walking, light cardio, or exercise, strengthens the heart muscle, regulates blood pressure, and lowers stress hormones.
• Make healthy choices on your plate: olive oil, nuts, fish, and fiber-rich vegetables, along with cutting out salty foods, are the best way to keep blood vessels elastic.
• Get quality rest: chronic stress and lack of sleep force the heart to work in overdrive. 7–8 hours of sleep and breathing exercises directly improve heart rate stability.
• Give up harmful habits: quitting tobacco and alcohol significantly reduces the risk of blood vessel damage.
• Monitor the basics: regular checks of blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels are the simplest way to catch any changes early.

Take care of your heart today

World Heart Day is the perfect reason to pause, take a deep breath, and make time for your own health and the health of your loved ones.