Nurse warns of Ischaemic Heart disease risk

Mrs. Esther Issaka, a Principal Nursing Officer and Critical Care Nurse at Tema Urban Hospital, has warned that the risk of ischaemic heart disease surges after ages 45 for men and 55 for women.

In an interview with Nana Asabea on Plan B FM’s social and lifestyle programme, “Nyansapɔ Fie”, Mrs. Issaka shared her expertise on the condition.

_What is Ischaemic Heart Disease?_

Ischaemic heart disease occurs when the oxygen needed for the heart to function reduces or ceases due to blockages in the veins. This can cause damage or death to parts of the body that do not receive oxygen.

_Symptoms_

Symptoms of ischaemic heart disease include:

– Tightness in the chest
– Shortness of breath
– Nausea and vomiting
– Chest problems
– Fast heartbeat
– Profuse sweating

_Risk Factors_

There are two types of risk factors:

_Modifiable Risk Factors_

– Heavy smoking
– High cholesterol
– Hypertension
– Diabetes
– Lack of physical exercise
– Stress
– High fibrinogen levels (leading to blood clotting)

_Non-Modifiable Risk Factors_

– Age
– Gender
– Sex
– Hereditary factors

_Prevention and Action_

Mrs. Issaka emphasised the importance of taking proactive actions to curb ischaemic heart disease, especially for men above 45 and women above 55 who are at higher risk.

By:_TeamNyansapɔFie_