Constipation could be heart attack waiting to happen: Symptoms, prevention tips

Constipation is not merely a slight annoyance in your everyday life; if ignored, it may increase the likelihood of a heart attack. Continue reading to discover how persistent constipation can contribute to this serious health issue.
Given that constipation is a common problem faced by many, Dr Aniket Mule, Consultant – Internal Medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai’s Mira Road, shared, “If you are someone who faces difficulty in passing stool then you should be aware of the increasing risk of heart problems, especially heart attack. While constipation is often overlooked as a minor inconvenience, it possesses potential risk factors in elevating heart diseases. When your body struggles to induce regular bowel movements, it increases intra-abdominal pressure. This excessive stress on your abdominal area can not only affect your digestive tract but also trigger blood pressure and heart rate- major factors known to contribute to cardiovascular diseases.”
• Infrequent bowel movements
• A tight squeezing pain in the chest especially during or after straining.
• Irregular heartbeats feeling as if your heart is racing.
• Feeling unusually tired even after taking necessary rest.
• Swelling in the legs or ankle results in restricted mobility.
• Frequently coughing especially while lying down.
• Feeling dizzy due to sudden drop in blood pressure levels or heartbeat.
Dr Aniket Mule advised, “One needs to take proactive measures to manage constipation while reducing the risk of heart attack. Changing your dietary habits like eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, lentils, and legumes can be beneficial. Ensure that you stay hydrated and drink at least 1 to 2 liters of water per day to soften your stools. Engaging in physical activities and exercises for more than 45 minutes can be helpful in stimulating bowel movement while keeping your heart healthy. Consult your doctor if your constipation starts to negatively affect your day-to-day lifestyle. He/she can suggest your certain medications and stool softners to make it easier to pass stool.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.