Navratri, one of Gujarat’s most celebrated festivals, brings together people from all walks of life to enjoy the nine nights of dancing, devotion, and cultural unity. The highlight of the celebrations is the traditional Garba, a high-energy dance that fills the air with vibrancy. However, in recent years, the joyous occasion has seen an alarming rise in heart attack cases, especially in Gujarat. The mix of intense physical exertion, changing lifestyles, and, in some cases, pre-existing heart conditions is creating a perfect storm for cardiac events.
Understanding the Rise in Heart Attacks During Navratri
Dr Pankaj Kumar, MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Cardiologist) at Ujala Cygnus Group, Moradabad, sheds light on this phenomenon. “As Navratri celebrations bring people together to enjoy the vibrant Garba dance, we are seeing an unfortunate rise in heart-related incidents, particularly in Gujarat. Garba is a highly energetic and physically demanding activity, often involving hours of continuous dancing, spinning, and jumping. For many, this level of exertion may be new, leading to a sudden increase in heart rate and oxygen demand,” he explains.
This surge in physical activity, especially for individuals who aren’t used to such intensity, can place immense stress on the heart. “Those with pre-existing heart conditions or who are unaccustomed to intense physical activity are at higher risk of experiencing cardiac events like heart attacks or sudden cardiac arrest. Younger individuals, particularly, may face genetic predispositions that increase this risk,” Dr Kumar adds.
Several factors contribute to this increase, including long hours of dancing without proper breaks, insufficient hydration, and a lack of awareness about heart health. Combine this with the festive mood, loud music, and adrenaline, and the body can sometimes be pushed beyond its limits, especially if underlying heart conditions are present or undiagnosed.
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How to Take Care of Your Heart Health While Playing Garba
Even though Garba is a physically demanding activity, there are ways to enjoy the festivities while ensuring that your heart remains healthy. Dr Pankaj Kumar shares valuable tips to safeguard your heart during this festive season:
Stay Hydrated: “To protect your heart during Garba, it’s essential to stay hydrated,” says Dr Kumar. Dehydration can lead to increased blood viscosity, making the heart work harder to pump blood, thereby elevating the risk of heart-related issues.
Warm-up Before Dancing: Jumping straight into intense activity without preparing your body can strain your heart and muscles. A proper warm-up helps increase circulation, allowing your body to gradually adapt to the physical demands of Garba.
Pace Yourself: “Avoid overexertion and listen to your body,” advises Dr Kumar. It’s important to know your limits. If you’re feeling fatigued, dizzy, or short of breath, take a break immediately. Dancing continuously for long hours can overload the heart, so taking short intervals to rest and recover is crucial.
Take Breaks: Giving your body time to cool down and recover between rounds of dancing will reduce the risk of exhaustion and lower the strain on your heart.
Monitor Your Health: If you have a history of heart problems or any concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your doctor before engaging in such intense physical activities. Regular health check-ups and monitoring your heart rate while dancing can also be lifesavers.
Ensure Medical Assistance Is Available: Dr Kumar emphasizes the importance of event organizers providing access to medical professionals and equipment during Garba nights. “It’s crucial that event organizers provide easy access to medical professionals trained in CPR and have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on-site to handle emergencies promptly,” he notes.
Also read: How To Identify Chest Pain Caused By A Heart Attack: Cardiologist Insights
Conclusion
Navratri is a time for celebration, and Garba is an integral part of this cultural festivity. However, taking care of your heart health is equally important to ensure that the fun continues safely. As Dr Pankaj Kumar suggests, by staying mindful of your body’s signals, pacing yourself, and ensuring proper hydration, you can enjoy the festivities without putting undue stress on your heart. After all, a healthy heart is the key to making the most of the festival season!