Feeling a Sudden Chest Pain or Tingling? Here's How to Prevent Heart Disease

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Heart Disease. Let’s dive in!

I've been living alone for over 10 years now, and one thought keeps bothering me:
What if something dangerous happens to me, and there's no one nearby to call for help or take me to the hospital?
As the number of single-person households grows, I’m sure many others share the same concern.

Recently, Don Hasselbeck, a Super Bowl champion, passed away due to a heart attack.

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Heart Disease Can Strike Anyone — Prevention Is Key

One of the scariest health threats these days is heart disease. Even people who appear healthy can suddenly lose their lives. Once the golden time passes, it’s often too late, and unless someone nearby performs CPR in time, the chances of survival are very slim.
It’s a terrifying condition — especially for someone like me who lives alone — because it often strikes without any clear warning signs and can happen to anyone.

That’s why I’ve decided to learn more about heart health and make an effort to eat heart-friendly foods regularly. Even healthy individuals can be caught off guard by heart disease.

Experts say that not only people in their 40s and older but also those in their 20s and 30s should pay attention to heart health.
Among various heart conditions, sudden cardiac arrest — which can lead to death without warning — is often caused by coronary artery disease due to atherosclerosis, accounting for about 80–90% of cases.
Annually, this affects about 1–2 out of every 1,000 people (0.1–0.2%).

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Heart Disease Might Not Be Obvious, But It Does Show Signs

Even though symptoms may not be obvious, there are definitely early signs of heart problems.
Several months before a heart event, you may start to feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or extreme fatigue.

If you feel sudden tightness or pain in your chest, notice your heart beating unusually fast, or struggle to breathe even with light exercise or a short walk, it could be a warning sign.
This can happen at night, too. If you don’t usually suffer from sleep apnea but find yourself waking up frequently with heart palpitations, it’s worth considering a possible heart condition.

Also, if you have high or low blood pressure, experience frequent chest pain or palpitations, have ever fainted during daily life, have high cholesterol levels, or notice you’re out of breath or sweating heavily when lying down or sleeping, it’s time to get a heart checkup.
The same goes for people who smoke or drink heavily or have a family history of heart disease.

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What to Do If You Feel Chest Pain

There are four main types of tests used to evaluate heart health:

1. Heart MRI – This uses magnetic resonance imaging to assess heart function. It measures the size and function of the left and right ventricles and checks for valve regurgitation.

2. Heart CT – A computed tomography scan that helps detect coronary artery narrowing or structural issues in the heart.

3. Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound) – Useful for observing the heart’s structure and performance.

4. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – This is the most basic and commonly performed test. It’s primarily used to diagnose arrhythmias and coronary artery diseases like angina and myocardial infarction.

If you suspect a heart issue, it’s best to visit a hospital and consult with a medical professional to determine which of these tests is most appropriate for your condition.

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Exercise is, of course, one of the best ways to prevent heart disease.
Cutting back on alcohol and tobacco, and maintaining a regular routine, are just as important.
Avoid foods that are high in sodium or greasy, as they’re harmful to cardiovascular health.

Instead, try to eat more heart-friendly foods like strawberries, yogurt, vegetables, and red beets — all easy to include in your daily meals.
Unsweetened coffee and green tea are also known to help reduce the risk of heart disease.

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If a family member or friend suddenly collapses from a heart attack, they must be taken to the hospital as quickly as possible.
After calling for emergency help, start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) right away.
It’s a good idea to learn basic first aid and CPR skills so you’re prepared for emergencies.

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Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖

This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.

Ear Disease Symptoms – Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs from Your Ears!

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Ear Disease. Let’s dive in!

The ears play many important roles in the body. Most people know them only as organs for hearing, but they also help maintain our sense of balance. The ear is divided into three parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. In the inner ear, the vestibular system detects gravity and acceleration, while the semicircular canals manage movement and the sensation of rotation.

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Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss

If sounds suddenly seem quieter – it could be sudden hearing loss
When something goes wrong with the ears, it's often related to hearing problems. One of the most well-known conditions is sudden hearing loss. Just like its name, this condition involves a rapid decline in hearing. Sometimes the hearing may improve temporarily, then worsen again. If the sounds you normally hear begin to feel faint, or if you experience ringing in your ears (tinnitus), sudden hearing loss should be suspected.

Sudden hearing loss is diagnosed through a hearing test. It refers to a hearing loss of more than 30 decibels (dB) across multiple frequencies, occurring within 3 days. Along with tinnitus (such as a high-pitched ringing), symptoms may include dizziness or vertigo.

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Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss

Can be triggered by viruses, immune disorders, or noise
Sudden hearing loss typically affects just one ear. It’s rare for both ears to be affected. In many cases, the cause is unknown, but it may be related to viral infections, blood vessel issues, or autoimmune diseases. Environmental factors, like exposure to loud noises, can also play a role.

Recently, there’s been an increase in people reporting sudden hearing loss after recovering from COVID-19. Although research into long COVID is still ongoing, it’s possible that a weakened immune system caused by COVID-19 infection may lead to sudden hearing loss.

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Treatment for Sudden Hearing Loss

Early treatment is essential
If medication is started early, sudden hearing loss may fully recover within a year. However, outcomes vary. In some cases, it’s hard to regain hearing back to its original level. Studies show that up to 30% of patients with severe sudden hearing loss may lose their hearing permanently. If the initial hearing loss is severe or the condition progresses rapidly, delaying treatment can result in poor recovery.

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Symptoms of Meniere’s Disease

Dizziness with ringing in the ears may point to Meniere’s Disease
Even if you don’t have hearing loss, persistent dizziness can also indicate an ear-related problem. One example is Meniere’s disease, which is named after the French physician Prosper Ménière. This condition is marked by both dizziness and tinnitus happening at the same time. It may feel like your ear is completely blocked, and it can lead to sudden episodes of intense vertigo.

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Causes of Meniere’s Disease

May be linked to autoimmune issues or thyroid disorders
The exact cause of Meniere’s disease is still unclear. However, some reports suggest links to autoimmune conditions, metabolic disorders, or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

The condition often begins with hearing loss—especially in low frequencies. As the disease progresses, it can affect higher frequencies as well. Initially, hearing loss might occur only in one ear, similar to sudden hearing loss. But over time, it can impact both ears. In severe cases, dizziness becomes so intense that the person may not be able to stand. Nausea and vomiting due to vertigo are also possible.

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Treatment for Meniere’s Disease

Early treatment and proper rest are key
For Meniere’s disease, early treatment and sufficient rest can help reduce symptoms. However, if the dizziness becomes intense enough to trigger full-blown episodes, medication is often required. If you start to notice signs like muffled sounds or ringing in your ears, it’s important to visit a doctor right away for early treatment.

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Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖

This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.

How to Take Care of Your Blood Vessels: Key Tips for Preventing Vascular Diseases

 

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Vascular Disease. Let’s dive in!

As the population ages rapidly, cases of heart and cerebrovascular diseases are expected to rise, increasing the social and economic burden. If another infectious disease like COVID-19 spreads, these conditions can become even more life-threatening.

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Types of Vascular Diseases

Diabetes and Hypertension Require Continuous Management

Major heart-related diseases include myocardial infarction, angina, and heart failure, while stroke is the most common cerebrovascular disease. These conditions are often preceded by hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis. Managing lifestyle habits and receiving consistent treatment during the early stages can help prevent serious complications.

However, many people are unaware of their condition. Among diabetics over 30, 3 out of 10 don't even know they have diabetes, and 3 out of 4 fail to control their blood sugar properly. 2 out of 5 don't take appropriate medications like insulin or blood sugar-lowering drugs.

Similarly, 3 out of 10 people with high blood pressure don't know they have it, and 2 out of 5 don't take their prescribed medication regularly. Half of all hypertension patients fail to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

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Causes of Vascular Diseases

Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, and Cholesterol Levels

Even without a pre-existing condition, people in their 30s and 40s who smoke or drink excessively are at a higher risk than other age groups. Experts emphasize monitoring three key indicators of vascular health: blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

Healthy levels to maintain:

• Blood pressure: Below 120/80 mmHg

• Fasting blood sugar: Below 100 mg/dL

• Total cholesterol: Below 200 mg/dL

Regularly checking and maintaining these levels within the normal range is essential for preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

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How to Maintain Healthy Blood Vessels

Quit Smoking, Reduce Alcohol, and Exercise Regularly

To protect your blood vessels, follow these lifestyle rules:

• Quit smoking completely, not just reduce it.

• If you drink, limit alcohol to one or two drinks per day.

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and fish, and avoid salty foods.

• Exercise at least 30 minutes daily to maintain a healthy weight and waistline.

• Manage stress levels, as stress negatively impacts blood vessel health.

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Foods That Help (or Harm) Vascular Health

Foods to Avoid

Many people consume unhealthy foods that harm blood vessel health, including:

• Fast food (pizza, burgers)

• High-sugar foods (bread, pastries)

• Processed meats (ham, sausage)

• Baked goods (cakes, pies)

• Salty foods (pickles, side dishes, soup broth)

These foods contain excessive saturated and trans fats or sodium, which increase the risk of vascular diseases.

Foods That Improve Blood Vessel Health

On the other hand, the following foods support vascular health:

• Whole grains (brown rice, barley) – Help prevent arteriosclerosis

• Tofu – Rich in protein and fiber

• Fatty fish (mackerel, salmon) – High in healthy unsaturated fats

• Seaweed (kelp, wakame) – Lowers cholesterol and fights free radicals

• Apples – Prevents harmful cholesterol buildup

• Tomatoes – Contain lycopene, which prevents blood clots and arteriosclerosis

Eating these foods regularly improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Symptoms of Vascular Diseases

Watch for Sudden Paralysis or Chest Pain

Recognizing the early symptoms of stroke and heart attack is crucial.

Signs of a Stroke:

• Sudden paralysis on one side of the body

• Difficulty speaking or blurred vision

• Severe headaches or dizziness

Signs of a Heart Attack:

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweats, nausea, or dizziness

• Sudden chest pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately. Quick action can save lives and prevent permanent damage.

By managing lifestyle habits, monitoring key health indicators, and eating a balanced diet, you can protect your blood vessels and prevent serious health issues.

Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖

This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs! Your Ears Are Telling You Something’s Wrong

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Ears Warning Signs. Let’s dive in!

Our ears do more than just hear—they also help us keep balance. The ear consists of the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Inside, the vestibular system detects gravity and acceleration, while the semicircular canals sense movement and rotation. But when something goes wrong, your ears send warning signals that should never be ignored.

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Sudden Hearing Loss (Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss - SSHL)

If Sounds Suddenly Seem Quieter—It Could Be SSHL

One of the most common ear-related conditions is sudden hearing loss (SSHL). As the name suggests, it happens suddenly, causing a rapid decline in hearing. Some people experience fluctuating hearing loss, while others notice that sounds they used to hear clearly now seem much quieter. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or dizziness may also accompany it.

Doctors diagnose SSHL through a hearing test. If there is a hearing loss of 30 dB or more across multiple frequencies within three days, it is considered SSHL. Some may also experience persistent ringing or a spinning sensation (vertigo).

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Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss

Viruses, Immune Disorders, and Noise Exposure

SSHL usually affects only one ear. While the exact cause is often unknown, some cases are linked to viral infections, vascular issues, and autoimmune diseases. Exposure to loud noises can also trigger SSHL.

Recently, there has been an increase in SSHL cases after recovering from COVID-19. Though research is still ongoing, scientists suspect that immune system damage from COVID-19 could be a contributing factor.

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Treatment for SSHL

Early Treatment is Crucial!

With prompt medical treatment, SSHL can recover within a year. However, not all cases have a positive outcome. In severe cases, up to 30% of SSHL patients may experience permanent hearing loss. If the initial hearing loss is severe, delaying treatment significantly reduces the chances of recovery.

While hearing loss was once considered an age-related condition, younger patients are now at risk. In 2019, nearly 80,000 people under 30 in South Korea were diagnosed with hearing loss, accounting for 19.7% of all cases. Experts believe stress, lack of sleep, and frequent headphone use are major factors.

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Ménière’s Disease

If You Experience Dizziness and Ringing in Your Ears—It Could Be Ménière’s Disease

Not all ear problems cause hearing loss. Ménière’s disease is a disorder that causes vertigo (dizziness) and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) at the same time. Some people feel a blocked sensation in the ear, which can escalate into sudden and intense vertigo episodes.

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Causes of Ménière’s Disease

Linked to Autoimmune Disorders, Thyroid Issues, and More

The exact cause of Ménière’s disease remains unknown, but it is believed to be connected to autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and thyroid dysfunction.

The condition often begins with low-frequency hearing loss, meaning deep sounds become harder to hear. As the disease progresses, it affects high-frequency hearing as well. Initially, only one ear may be affected, but as the disease worsens, both ears can be impacted.

In severe cases, the dizziness can become so intense that standing up becomes impossible. Some patients also experience nausea and vomiting due to vertigo.

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Treatment for Ménière’s Disease

Early Treatment and Rest Are Key

If treated early and managed with proper rest, symptoms can improve. However, if vertigo attacks become severe, medication may be necessary.

If you suddenly notice sounds becoming quieter, or if you experience unusual sensations in your ears, seek medical help immediately. Ignoring the signs could lead to permanent damage.