Having normal blood pressure and cholesterol does not guarantee that your heart is safe. Heart attacks can still occur because of other risk factors, such as diabetes or high blood sugar, smoking, chronic stress, poor sleep, an inactive lifestyle, obesity, a family history of heart disease, inflammation and a high level of certain blood fats that routine tests may miss. Some people also have silent blockages that cause no symptoms until a sudden event. A healthy diet, regular exercise, good sleep, stress control and avoiding tobacco all help. Do not ignore chest discomfort, breathlessness, unusual sweating, pain spreading to the arm or jaw, or sudden fatigue. If you have a family history or other risk factors, talk to a cardiologist about regular check-ups and the right tests.
