Richard Chazal, MD

Lindsey Morton: Each year more than 700,000 adults suffer a heart attack. Dr. Richard Cha...: So a heart attack actually means damage to the heart as opposed to discomfort caused by restriction of blood flow to the heart muscle, which we call angina. Lindsey Morton: And while this is what we expect, doctors say many times patients don't have any symptoms. Dr. Richard Cha...: In fact, up to 30% of heart attacks can occur without symptoms, that are at least recognized by the person, or so-called silent heart attacks. Lindsey Morton: But even silent heart attacks come with warning signs. Often years before the heart attack occurs. Things like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and family history can put patients at risk for having a heart attack. Dr. Richard Cha...: What we don't want to do is ignore those types of warning signs and there you end up with a heart attack. Lindsey Morton: Doctors encourage patients to take control of their health, to prevent a heart attack. Dr. Richard Cha...: Firstly, and importantly, don't smoke. It's proven to be a major risk factor, beyond that everyone should know what their blood pressure is and their cholesterol level. Lindsey Morton: If you're a meat eater, go towards leaner cuts like fish or chicken, which have less saturated fat. Dr. Richard Cha...: The food diet that's lower in saturated fats and higher in fruits and vegetables is much, much better for us. Lindsey Morton: Having an active lifestyle can also improve your heart health and lower your chances for a heart attack. Dr. Richard Cha...: There's some damage that can occur to the heart either from a heart attack or from other problems that can be in some cases, irreparable. Lindsey Morton: Damage that can be prevented if patients recognize the early warning signs and take control of their health. For Lee Health, I'm Lindsey Morton.