You can lower your risk of heart attack by making modifications
to your lifestyle. If you have already had a heart attack, or
have several risk factors for heart disease that put you at high
risk, your doctor may recommend certain medications to lower
your risk of first or recurrent heart attack. Smoking can
increase the amount of fatty material that collects in your
arteries. In addition, nicotine contained in cigarette smoke
makes your heart work harder. It narrows blood vessels and
subsequently increases your heart rate and blood pressure. Also
remember that secondhand smoking is detrimental to your health.
Make sure you're not exposed to cigarette smoke. When you quit
smoking, your risk of heart disease drops significantly within
the first year. A diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol and
rich in whole grains , fruits and vegetables will help lower
cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and body weight—three heart
attack risk factors. The American Heart Association (AHA) also
recommends that you add fish