Heart attack symptoms: The painful skin condition that could increase risk by 50 percent – Express

Heart attacks happen when the flow of blood to the heart is blocked, a mechanism commonly triggered by a build-up of fat, cholesterol and other substances, which form a plaque in the arteries that feed the heart. This process does not happen overnight, rather it is the accumulation of unhealthy lifestyle decisions taken over a period of time. As a result, there is ample opportunity to avert the risk of having a heart attack.

It is vital to heed the warning signs that foreshadow a heart attack so you can take steps to prevent it.

While most people would associate heart attack signs with chest pain, there are a surprising number of symptoms that show up in different places in the body.

For example, people who suffer from severe eczema may be at a greater risk of having a heart attack, according to a study published in the BMJ.

Eczema is a common skin condition that is characterised by itchy and inflamed patches of skin.

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Each was matched with up to five people of similar age and sex who didn't have eczema.

After a five-year follow-up, the researchers found that people with severe eczema had a 40 percent to 50 percent increased risk of heart attack, atrial fibrillation, and death from heart disease, as well as a 20 percent higher risk of stroke.

The risks remained even after the researchers accounted for confounding factors such as weight, smoking, and alcohol use.

In light of the findings, the study authors suggested that people with severe eczema should be screened for risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol.

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Heart attack symptoms: The painful skin condition that could increase risk by 50 percent - Express