Heart Failure in Men

According to recent studies, heart failure in men is the number one leading cause of death in the United States, which takes the lives of more than 300,000 men every year. Although heart disease is a serious illness that widely affects men (and also women too), there are ways to prevent it from happening through healthy lifestyle change or other treatment options. Understanding your personal heart attack risk factors takes you to the first step to achieving a healthier future – heart disease free!

Facts About Heart Failure in Men

• Heart failure in men is the leading cause of death (1 in every 4 males) in the United States.
• Heart disease is also the leading cause of death for men of most racial/ethnic groups in the United States that includes African Americans, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Hispanics and Caucasians. It is second only to cancer for Asian American or Pacific Islander men.
• Studies show that half of the men who suddenly die of coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms.
• Unforeseen cardiac events occur between 70% and 89% in men.

The Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Failure in Men

As per research conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association, the risk of heart failure in men starts as earlyas the age of 45. This risk becomes higher for overweight middle aged men which increase the chance of hospitalization or worse, death from heart disease.

Other medical conditions and lifestyle choices that can increase individual’s risk for heart disease includes:

• Diabetes
• Poor diet
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol use
• Smoking
• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure

Signs or Symptoms of Cardiovascular Failure in Men (Heart Attack)

Most men have no knowledge that they are at risk for heart disease until it is too late. Many times a heart attack is the initial sign that something is wrong. Here are some symptoms of heart attack:

• A feeling of discomfort or pain in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach
• An uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of the chest
• Sudden shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
• Nausea, profuse sweating or lightheadedness

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

How to Prevent Cardiovascular Failure in Men

Here are preventive measures to help prevent heart failure in men:

• Do not smoke or use any tobacco products.
• Eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables and low-fat foods.
• Try to maintain a healthy weight.
• Do cardiovascular exercise—brisk walking, jogging, swimming or biking for at least 30 minutes, four to six times a week.
• Check your cholesterol regularly.
• If you are suffering from diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control.
• Get a regular check-up of your blood pressure.
• With your doctor’s approval, take aspirin daily.