Angina is not the easiest of diseases to live with – there is that feeling of uneasiness, burning in your chest, jaw pain, and sweating. The diagnosis isn’t easy to make either – you may have dismissed it as regular heartburn but then your cardiologist informs you that it’s angina, a heart disease, and just like that, you are petrified.
Breathe. It’s time for you to look at angina in a different light, think about this, you are still alive, and you can still make the right lifestyle changes to ward off an impending heart attack. Angina is a warning that your heart gives to you, and if you take the right measures then you, like a lot of other angina-sufferers around the globe, can survive with it.
It is normal to feel frightened following the diagnosis. Anything regarding our heart always scares us. Look at angina as a motivation to live better, make healthier choices, and initiate lifestyle modifications that will safeguard your heart.
Some simple heart-smart choices
Exercise
Devise a fitness regimen with your doctor’s help that will keep you active without putting any undue pressure on your heart. Aerobic exercises like walking, swimming, or bicycling and hobbies like light dancing and gardening are good for angina patients. Physically demanding activities like weight-lifting and contact sports should be avoided.
Quit smoking
Smoking can increase plaque build-up and damage your heart’s blood vessels. So quit smoking, your heart needs you to.
Stress management
Stress is a part of life, so accept it and try to change your perception of and your response to stress. Use relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga to help yourself cope better.
Manage your weight
Your waistline affects the longevity of your lifeline. Keep an eye on the weighing machine and aim for a BMI below 24.9 and for a waist lesser than 35 inches (90 centimeters).
Every person’s physiology is different and therefore please consult your physician/doctor regarding what your ideal BMI and weight should be.
- Have a nutritious diet
Good nutrition is important for your heart’s health. Healthy eating habits will help you control some of the risk factors for developing heart disease.
Choose fruits, vegetables, and whole grains- Pick low-fat proteins like fish, beans, and lean meat
- Opt for skim milk and low-fat yogurt
- Limit salt, garnish with spices and herbs
- Reduce sugary juices and fried snacks
- Replace alcohol and aerated drinks with plain water, unsweetened juices, and lemon water
- Munch on nuts and seeds instead of snacks and savories
Please however consult your physician/doctor before making any modifications in your diet or otherwise taking any decisions regarding your nutrition.
