Heart disease has long been thought to only affect older people. However, in recent years, cases of heart disease in young people have actually increased, even in those who appear healthy, active, and have no history of serious illness. Lifestyle changes, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy eating habits are the main reasons why heart disease no longer recognizes age.
Therefore, the younger generation needs to understand the causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent heart disease from an early age.
Why Can Heart Disease Attack Young People?
Heart disease in young people generally arises from an uncontrolled modern lifestyle. Here are some of the main causes:
1. Consume foods high in fat and cholesterol
Fast food, fried foods, fatty meats, and high-sugar drinks can trigger plaque buildup in blood vessels. This process is called atherosclerosis, and if it occurs at a young age, it increases the risk of heart attack later in life.
2. Lack of physical activity
Many young people spend their time in front of screens—whether on their phones, laptops, or playing games—and rarely move. This sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which are major risk factors for heart disease.
3. Smoking and vaping
Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes or vaping can damage the lining of blood vessels and make the heart work harder. At a young age, this habit can trigger heart damage more quickly than you realize.
4. Excessive stress
Pressure from work, education, or social issues is often experienced by the younger generation. Chronic stress can lead to increased cortisol levels, high blood pressure, and even heart rhythm disturbances.
5. Genetic factors
In some people, heart disease is caused by inherited factors, such as heart valve abnormalities or a family history of heart attacks at a young age. These factors can accelerate the onset of symptoms, even if a healthy lifestyle is already present.
Early Symptoms of Heart Disease to Watch Out For
Heart disease often presents without any specific symptoms. However, the following signs should be noted:
- Chest pain or a feeling of pressure in the chest
- Heart palpitations or irregularity
- Shortness of breath during light activity
- Get tired quickly
- Pain radiating to the left arm, neck, or back
- Dizziness or near fainting
If these signs appear, you should immediately consult a doctor for further evaluation.
How to Prevent Heart Disease from a Young Age
Preventing heart disease can actually start with simple lifestyle changes. Here are some steps you can take:
- Choose a healthy diet by increasing vegetables, fruit, and whole grains, and reducing saturated fat and salt.
- Make it a routine to exercise for at least 30 minutes , 5 times a week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
- Stop smoking or vaping to maintain heart and blood vessel health.
- Manage stress with meditation, adequate sleep, recreational activities, and maintaining a balanced life.
- Maintain an ideal body weight to reduce the risk of metabolic disease and heart problems.
- Have regular health checks , including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Heart disease no longer only affects the elderly. Younger generations can also experience it due to unhealthy modern lifestyles.
Delaying examination will only make symptoms more difficult to control and potentially lead to complications. If you begin to experience unusual symptoms, persistent pain, or changes in your condition that increasingly interfere with your activities, consult a doctor immediately. Early examination helps pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms, expedites treatment, and prevents health problems from developing into more serious ones.
Take care of your heart starting today because health is the best investment for the future.
The article was written by Dr. Mailani Karina Akhmad, Sp.JP(K), FIHA (Heart and Blood Vessel Specialist, EMC Cikarang Hospital).