Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 18 Jul 2024
Why Are You At A Serious Risk For A Heart Attack On A Monday?
Serious heart attacks or STEMI occur when a major coronary artery gets completely blocked
A heart attack kills at least 85 per cent of people who have cardiovascular diseases, according to statistics. The figure represents 32 per cent of all deaths worldwide. Doctors say serious heart attacks are more likely to happen at the start of the working week than at any other time – which means beware of Monday!
According to scientists, serious heart attacks – also known as ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction or STEMI occur when a major coronary artery gets completely blocked. Studies have discovered a significant spike in rates of STEMI heart attacks at the start of the working week, with the number highest on a Monday.
Why is Monday a crucial day for a heart attack?
A few factors that make the first day of the week an extremely crucial time for most people having a heart attack include:
Circadian rhythm
Your body's circadian rhythm or the sleep-wake cycle may be associated with heart attacks on Mondays. Doctors say it happens because the rhythm affects hormones that can influence heart attacks and strokes.
Heightened stress
Whether you realize it or not, the stress of returning to work on a Monday can also contribute as a primary factor for a heart attack.
Alcohol
Many people drink heavily on the weekend which contributes to raised fat levels in your bloodstream - leading to high blood pressure and subsequent heart failure.
Diet
A diet high in sugar, animal fats, processed foods, trans fats, and salt – mostly over the weekend, increases the risk of heart attacks.
Commuting
Monday morning traffic rush hour and commute to work increases the risk of cardiovascular events through air pollution exposure, physical inactivity, and stress.
And it is not just a day of the week that can be a cause for concern. According to the American Heart Association, people die the most from heart attacks in the last week of December, compared to any other time of the year. According to experts, the change in routine, sleep and exercise schedules, as well as diet, puts many people at risk for heart-related problems during that time of year.
Signs and symptoms of a heart attack
A few signs and symptoms of a heart attack may include:
- Chest pain or feeling of an intense pressure in the chest
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling discomfort in an arm or shoulder
- Pain in the back, neck, and jaw
- Feeling weak or faint
- Trouble breathing
Ways to improve your risk factors for a heart attack
Although more than 40 per cent of Indians have most of the risk factors of heart disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking, there are ways you can lower your chances of a heart attack:
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Quit smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels regularly
- Take your medication as directed