Factors you cannot change
Age: The risk of coronary artery disease generally increases with age, although younger adults can also develop serious heart problems.
Family history: Having close relatives who developed heart disease at an early age may increase your risk.
Inherited conditions: Some people inherit disorders that raise cholesterol or affect the structure or function of the heart.
Pregnancy-related and hormonal history: Certain pregnancy complications and other sex-specific factors can influence long-term cardiovascular risk and deserve discussion with a healthcare professional.
Factors you can work to improve
High blood pressure: Persistently elevated blood pressure places strain on the cardiovascular system.
High LDL cholesterol: Elevated LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque formation in arteries.
Diabetes: High blood glucose over time can damage blood vessels and increase cardiovascular risk.
Smoking: Tobacco smoke damages blood vessels and contributes to cardiovascular disease.
Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can worsen blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and body weight.
Dietary patterns: Diets high in excess sodium, saturated fat, and highly processed foods can contribute to several cardiovascular risk factors.
Excessive alcohol use and poor sleep: These can affect blood pressure and other aspects of cardiovascular health.
Risk factors often interact. A person with several risk factors may have a higher overall risk than someone with only one.
But risk is not destiny. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and tobacco exposure can meaningfully improve cardiovascular health.
16. What Tests May Doctors Use to Investigate Heart Symptoms?
If you report possible cardiac symptoms, a healthcare professional will consider your medical history, the timing and character of the symptoms, your examination findings, and your risk factors.
The appropriate tests depend on whether a heart attack is suspected or whether the concern is a more gradual problem.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
An ECG records the heart's electrical activity. It can reveal patterns that suggest a heart attack or an abnormal rhythm.
An ECG is often one of the first tests performed when a heart attack is suspected. However, a normal initial ECG does not rule out every heart attack, so clinicians may need additional testing.
Blood tests
Cardiac troponin is a protein released into the blood when heart muscle cells are injured. Measuring troponin levels, sometimes repeatedly over time, can help doctors determine whether heart muscle damage has occurred.
The results must be interpreted alongside symptoms, ECG findings, and other clinical information.
Echocardiography
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart. It can show how well the heart pumps and whether particular areas of the heart muscle are moving abnormally.
It may also help identify certain structural or valve problems.
Stress testing and coronary imaging
Depending on the situation, clinicians may recommend exercise testing, imaging-based stress tests, coronary CT angiography, or invasive coronary angiography.
These tests can help investigate suspected coronary artery disease, but they are not interchangeable and are not appropriate for everyone.
If a heart attack is suspected, do not delay emergency care while trying to arrange an outpatient test.
17. What Should You Do If You Suspect a Heart Attack?
Knowing what to do can save valuable time.
Step 1: Call emergency services immediately.
If you or someone nearby develops chest pressure, shortness of breath, pain in the arm or jaw, cold sweating, or other symptoms suggesting a heart attack, call the local emergency number.
In Vietnam, you can call 115 for medical emergency assistance.
Step 2: Stop activity and rest.
Sit in a comfortable position while waiting for help. Avoid walking around, climbing stairs, or attempting to drive.
Step 3: Follow the emergency dispatcher's instructions.
Tell them when symptoms began, what the person is experiencing, and whether the person has known medical conditions or takes medication.
Step 4: Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Emergency medical personnel can assess the person and begin appropriate care during transport. If possible, have someone stay nearby while help is on the way.
Step 5: Follow professional guidance about medication.
Do not take someone else's heart medication. Aspirin may be advised in some suspected heart attacks, but it is not appropriate for everyone. Follow the emergency dispatcher's or clinician's instructions, particularly if there is an allergy, bleeding risk, or another reason aspirin may be unsafe.
Nitroglycerin should only be used as prescribed to the person taking it, according to their medical instructions.
Step 6: If the person collapses, check responsiveness and breathing.
If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, call emergency services, begin CPR if you are able, and use an AED if one is available. Follow the dispatcher's instructions.