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After turning 40, your body goes through significant changes—especially your heart. Whether you feel healthy or are just beginning to think about your long-term well-being, now is the right time to prioritise heart health.

At Horizon Hospital Goa, our cardiology specialists are here to help you take charge of your cardiovascular wellness with preventive tips, regular screenings, and lifestyle modifications tailored to your needs.

Why Heart Health Becomes More Important After 40

As we age, the risk of conditions like

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Type 2 diabetes
Arterial blockages

…increases significantly. Combined with sedentary lifestyles, stress, and dietary habits, these factors can silently affect your heart.

👉 Did You Know?

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in India, but 80% of heart-related issues are preventable with early lifestyle changes.

10 Tips for Heart Health After 40

1. Get Regular Health Check-Ups

Routine heart screenings, including blood pressure, lipid profile, ECG, and stress tests, help detect risks early.

2. Watch Your Weight

Being overweight increases your risk of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.

Tip: Aim for 30 minutes of daily exercise like walking, yoga, or swimming.

3. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Choose:

Whole grains
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Lean protein (fish, legumes)
Healthy fats (nuts, olive oil)

Avoid: Processed foods, red meat, excessive salt & sugar

4. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol

Tobacco use and heavy drinking are major triggers for heart disease. Quitting can significantly reduce your risk of a heart attack, even after age 40.

5. Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic stress releases hormones that raise blood pressure and heart rate.

Try meditation, deep breathing, hobbies, or counselling.

6. Monitor Blood Pressure & Cholesterol

After 40, it’s vital to track your BP and cholesterol levels regularly to avoid silent heart damage.

7. Control Blood Sugar

Diabetes can damage arteries and increase heart risk. Routine screening is key.

8. Stay Active

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. This keeps your heart strong and improves blood flow.

9. Sleep Well

Poor sleep increases cortisol and BP levels. Adults should aim for 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep.

10. Know the Warning Signs

Don’t ignore:

Chest discomfort
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Fatigue

Seek immediate help if these symptoms occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: At what age should I start getting heart check-ups?

A: Ideally, start regular screenings at age 30, but after 40, they should become a priority—especially if you have a family history of heart disease.

Q2: Can I reverse heart disease with lifestyle changes?

A: While not all damage can be reversed, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly improve heart function and reduce further risk.

Q3: What’s the difference between an ECG and a TMT test?

ECG checks your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity at rest.
TMT (Treadmill Test) checks how your heart performs under stress (exercise).
Both are often used together for a comprehensive assessment.

Q4: I feel healthy. Do I still need a heart check-up?

A: Yes. Heart disease can be silent. Many people experience no symptoms until it’s serious. Preventive screening helps detect early risks.

Q5: What’s the ideal blood pressure for adults over 40?

A: A healthy BP is typically less than 120/80 mmHg. Anything consistently above 130/80 should be discussed with a doctor.

Your Heart Deserves More Than Routine Care

With Horizon Hospital, you get more than just check-ups—you get a healthcare partner who’s invested in your future. Whether you're managing risk factors or recovering from a cardiac event, we're here with support that lasts beyond discharge

When Was Your Last Heart Check-Up?

If you're over 40, it’s time to put your heart first. Schedule a consultation with our heart specialists today and take the first step toward a healthier life.

Turning 40? Here’s What Your Heart Wants You to Know