Heart attack 101

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Prevention

Medical methods for preventing a heart attack are similar to those for treating it (aspirin, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, etc). Typically these are administered if you’ve had a heart incident or are at high risk for a heart attack, as diagnosed by your doctor.

To reduce your risk of heart attack on your own, take these steps:

• Quit smoking.
• Keep cholesterol and blood pressure in check through healthy lifestyle choices.
• Control diabetes.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and low in saturated and trans fats.
• Reduce or manage stress.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Consume alcohol only in moderation (however, if you don’t currently drink alcohol, there is no reason to start).