Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 30: In a fast-paced corporate world where long working hours, constant availability and relentless pressure are often seen as symbols of success, health experts have warned that ignoring the body’s warning signs could have serious and even life-threatening consequences.
The case of Deepak Sethia, who required the placement of two cardiac stents before turning 40, has highlighted the growing concern over heart-related issues among young professionals dealing with high-stress lifestyles.
Deepak’s life before the medical emergency was marked by 14-hour workdays, demanding deadlines and prolonged stress. Despite experiencing warning signs, he continued pushing through the pressure until his health crisis forced him to reassess his priorities.
Today, Deepak has changed his approach towards life, choosing health over excessive work pressure and focusing on being present for his family not just financially but also physically as a healthy father.
Medical experts discussing his case on NDTV Lifeline highlighted how chronic stress, poor sleep and unhealthy work habits are contributing to a growing cardiovascular health crisis among men.
Experts said social expectations often push men to ignore exhaustion, discomfort and early symptoms while treating extreme workloads as a measure of strength. However, prolonged stress keeps the body in a continuous state of fight-or-flight, increasing stress hormones that can raise blood pressure, damage blood vessels and disturb metabolic functions.
Doctors pointed out that many men often dismiss symptoms such as constant fatigue, breathlessness, chest discomfort or dizziness as minor issues. Chest pain is frequently mistaken for acidity or indigestion, delaying medical attention until the condition becomes severe.
Heart disease is increasingly affecting younger men, with experts warning that coronary artery disease is no longer limited to older age groups. Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation, blood vessel damage and faster plaque buildup, increasing the risk of blockages even among people below middle age.
Deepak’s requirement for two stents before the age of 40 reflects this changing pattern, where seemingly healthy and active individuals working in high-pressure environments are developing serious heart conditions.
Cardiologists have advised people to pay attention to warning signs including persistent fatigue despite adequate rest, unusual breathlessness during routine activities, chest heaviness or tightness, pain spreading to the left arm, shoulder, neck or jaw, and sudden dizziness or cold sweats.
Experts said scientific studies have linked prolonged stress with increased inflammation and a higher risk of heart attacks. Research has also shown that regularly sleeping less than six hours a night can increase cardiovascular risks by affecting blood pressure regulation and blood vessel health.
Doctors stressed that preventive health checks can help detect risks before they become emergencies. Men, especially those in stressful corporate jobs, should establish a health baseline between the ages of 35 and 40 through regular monitoring of blood pressure, blood sugar, HbA1c levels and cholesterol profiles.
Experts also recommended avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy habits while maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise and healthy weight management.
Health professionals said true strength is not about enduring silent physical damage but recognising warning signs and choosing well-being before the body forces a person to stop.