What causes heart problems at a young age?

Key risk factors of having a heart attack at a young age include: Substance abuse or excessive alcohol use. Smoking. High blood pressure.

Can a 15 year old get heart disease?

So, yes, kids and teens can get heart disease and have heart attacks, although it’s very rare and often a result of congenital heart defects.

Can you have heart problems at a young age?

Heart disease doesn’t happen just to older adults. It is happening to younger adults more and more often. This is partly because the conditions that lead to heart disease are happening at younger ages.

Can a 16 year old have heart disease?

Acquired heart disease is the kind we most often associate with adults, but children and teens can also be affected. The most common acquired heart diseases in children are rheumatic heart disease and Kawasaki disease.

How do you check for heart disease?

There are many noninvasive tests available to help your doctor check for heart disease.

1. Electrocardiogram. An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a short test that monitors the electrical activity in your heart.
2. Echocardiogram.
3. Stress test.
4. Carotid ultrasound.
5. Holter monitor.
6. Chest X-ray.
7. Tilt table test.
8. CT scan.

What are symptoms of a bad heart?

11 Common signs of an unhealthy heart

• Shortness of breath.
• Chest discomfort.
• Left shoulder pain.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Heartburn, stomach pain or back pain.
• Swollen feet.
• Lack of stamina.
• Sexual health problems.

Is heart disease painful?

Some people may feel a crushing pain, while others feel only mild discomfort. Your chest may feel heavy or like someone is squeezing your heart. You may also feel a sharp, burning pain in your chest. You may feel the pain under your breastbone (sternum), or in your neck, arms, stomach, jaw, or upper back.

What are the signs of a heart attack in young adults?

And without a doubt, while young adults are stricken with heart attacks far less frequently than older adults, they should be mindful of these symptoms that might signal an oncoming attack: chest pain, shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, jaw pain and vomiting.

What are the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease?

Cardiovascular disease can sometimes be found early with regular evaluations. Your heart may beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. Heart arrhythmia signs and symptoms can include: Serious heart defects that you’re born with (congenital heart defects) usually are noticed soon after birth.

Is premature heart disease a senior citizen disease?

Premature heart disease. December 15, 2019. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is very rare in males too young to drive, but it begins to creep up after men are old enough to vote. In the U.S., the average age for a first heart attack in men is 65. That’s why coronary artery disease is labeled a disease of senior citizens.

Is heart disease becoming more common among younger adults?

Heart disease doesn’t happen just to older adults. It is happening to younger adults more and more often. This is partly because the conditions that lead to heart disease are happening at younger ages. February is American Heart Month, the perfect time to learn about your risk for heart disease and the steps you need to take now to help your heart.