Chennai: Sedentary lifestyle is a subject that healthcare experts raise concerns about. One life-threatening condition that has become common among the youth is coronary heart disease.
Kauvery Hospital senior consultant, cardiac surgeon, Dr A R Raghuman, says, “Though there has not been city- or State-specific data, the heart problems surveyed are relevant to Chennai.”
Citing the empirical evidence he has gathered, he added, “I see quite a few patients between the age group 20 and 30 consulting for heart attacks. All the factors contributing to this situation are apropos to the vulnerable population in our city.”
The condition, where there is a blockage experienced in the blood vessels leading to the heart, is caused by work stress and fast-paced lifestyle. However, it just does not cause coronary heart disease but also a wide range of conditions. One among them is atherosclerosis where the arteries are hardened with deposition of fat.
“Smoking is an acute reason due to which millennial these days complain of heart ailments at a young age. Unhealthy eating practices, obesity and consumption of alcohol are major contributors to various cardiac diseases. Atherosclerosis compromises on the blood flow in the arteries which leads to a heart attack,” said the cardiac surgeon.
“Earlier, these symptoms were seen in people above 70 years of age, whereas these days, people in the age bracket of 30-40 years are seen with such heart complications due to their lifestyle,” the doctor added.
Explaining about one of the most common factors, he said, “Obesity, caused due to a sedentary lifestyle, is something that is practised by the current generation. This makes them less active and keeps them glued to their seats and screens. Kids must be taught to step out and play and interact in order to have an active life, thereby, reducing the risk of a heart ailment in the future. Having some form of physical activity is very important to avoid any type of serious health conditions.”
However, with the advent of technology, people rely on the Internet when they experience initial symptoms which the expert states is not advisable as they may act as a clue to further serious problems.
“Internet can only provide the path towards the problem and not the solution. The queries asked lead to confusions among the individuals and it is best to consult a professional doctor,” he advised.
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 When asked about preventive measures, cardiac surgeon, Dr A R Raghuman, suggested that people take timely breaks to free themselves from stress by indulging in healthy activities.
“Healthy eating and physical activities are something that an individual must practise as a routine,” he said. |