Heart Attacks: What Happened During the Soccer Match?
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- SaharaReporters
A few days ago, Nigeria and South Africa went head-to-head in the AFCON semi-finals, with Nigeria clinching victory in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Shortly after the match, news broke that two politicians had passed away during the tense moments of the penalty shootout. This raised questions about the cause of their deaths.
Observing from where I saw the football match, I noticed several men above the age of 40 clutching their chests, albeit smiling. It was evident they were experiencing discomfort.
The Cause: Heart Attacks
The answer to the chest pain and subsequent deaths is simple: heart attacks.
What is a Heart Attack?
By myupchar, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia commons
The heart, like other organs, relies on blood vessels for nourishment. When these vessels supplying the heart become blocked, it leads to a heart attack.
How do Heart Vessels Get Blocked?
Most often, it's due to cholesterol buildup, a process known as atherosclerosis. Over time, plaques accumulate, causing vessel blockage.
Another contributing factor is long-standing hypertension. This condition forces the heart to pump against increased pressure, leading to muscle enlargement. However, despite the heart growing larger, the blood supply remains the same, creating a deficit, especially during periods of stress or anxiety.
In such situations, the heart beats faster, demanding more blood. But if the vessels are blocked, blood flow is restricted, resulting in chest pain. If a vessel is completely blocked, a heart attack occurs.
To simplify, imagine a hose with debris: as the debris accumulates, water flow decreases. Similarly, as vessel blockage increases, blood flow diminishes, leading to a heart attack.
Preventative Measures
Understanding these preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks.
- Watch Your Diet: Limit foods high in fats and cholesterol.
- Regular Exercise: Crucial for heart health.
- Maintain Normal Blood Pressure: Through lifestyle changes and medication.
- Prompt Medical Attention: If you experience exertion-related chest pain, consult a doctor promptly.
By taking these steps, we can work towards a healthier heart and a safer future for all.
And that's a wrap!