Dr Chris Aminarh Breaks Down Essential Chest & Abdominal Health Checks

On today’s edition of BIG CONVO, resident medical expert, Dr Chris Aminarh, continued his ongoing head-to-toe health education series, shifting focus to the chest and abdominal regions.

The discussion centred on a crucial reminder: many life-threatening conditions develop silently and routine health checks remain the most reliable way to prevent complications.

Dr Chris emphasised that the chest houses some of the body’s most vital organs, primarily the heart and lungs.

Describing the heart as the body’s “main pumping station,” he explained how blood pressure works using a simple pipeline analogy: the narrower the vessel, the greater the pressure required to push blood through it.

Modern diets high in cholesterol contribute to plaque buildup inside blood vessels, narrowing them and increasing pressure. Over time, this can lead to: hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke, heart failure and sudden collapse.

“Hypertension is a silent killer,” Dr Chris warned. “Many people have no symptoms until something serious happens.”

He noted that while blood pressure was once primarily monitored in older adults, younger individuals even from age 18 should now check regularly due to lifestyle stress and dietary factors.

The lungs play a critical role in oxygen supply. Any compromise whether through infection, environmental exposure or lifestyle habits affects the entire body’s function.

Beyond the organs, the chest wall and rib cage also require attention. Conditions such as osteoporosis can weaken bones over time, sometimes leading to fractures from minimal impact.

Calcium deficiency was highlighted as a growing concern, especially as rising food costs limit access to calcium-rich diets. Supplements may be necessary where dietary intake is insufficient.

Using relatable examples, Dr Chris explained that blood pressure reflects the force of blood against vessel walls. When vessels narrow due to plaque or cholesterol deposits, pressure increases.

Shifting focus to the abdominal region, Dr Chris clarified a common misconception: what many people call “stomach pain” may not actually originate from the stomach.

Indigestion remains one of the most common causes of abdominal discomfort across both men and women. In women, menstrual cramps may also present as lower abdominal pain.