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Heart Attack
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is severely reduced or cut off entirely. This happens because of a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries supplying the heart with oxygen-rich blood.
The blockage is usually caused by a buildup of plaque - fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Plaque accumulation over time causes the arteries to narrow and harden. If a plaque deposit ruptures, it can trigger a blood clot to form, which fully occludes the artery.
The portion of heart muscle deprived of blood starts to die. Without prompt treatment, a heart attack can damage the heart permanently and be life-threatening.
Causes and Symptoms of Heart Attack
The underlying cause of a heart attack doesn’t develop overnight. Family history can play a role, but the primary catalyst is coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD is a condition in which fatty cholesterol-containing deposits called “plaques” build up in the arteries over time. This build-up of plaques is known as “atherosclerosis”. In some cases, a plaque build-up can rupture, forming a clot that blocks blood flow.
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack and understanding its underlying causes are essential for timely medical intervention. Prompt action can minimize heart muscle damage and improve the chances of a successful recovery. Managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, and leading a heart-healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack. Being vigilant about one's health and seeking medical attention immediately upon experiencing symptoms can make a life-saving difference.
Causes of Heart Attack
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of heart attacks. CAD occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This plaque narrows the arteries and makes it harder for blood to flow to the heart. If a plaque ruptures, it can form a blood clot that blocks the artery completely. This can lead to a heart attack. - Congenital heart defects
Congenital heart defects are defects in the heart that are present at birth. These defects can cause the heart to work harder and be more susceptible to heart attacks. - Heart valve problems
Heart valves control the flow of blood in and out of the heart. If a heart valve is not working properly, it can cause blood to back up and put strain on the heart. This can lead to a heart attack. - Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a condition that affects the heart muscle and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. Cardiomyopathy can increase the risk of heart attacks. - Stroke
Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked. A stroke can also cause a heart attack.
Symptoms of Heart Attack
- Chest pain or discomfort
Some people say it feels like a squeezing, pressure, or fullness in the chest. Others say it feels like indigestion or heartburn. The pain may also radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. - Shortness of breath
This is due to the heart not getting enough oxygen and working harder to pump blood. - Nausea and vomiting
When the heart is not getting enough blood and the digestive system is not getting enough oxygen, nausea and vomiting may occur. - Lightheadedness or fainting
Lightheadedness or fainting can occur if the heart is not getting enough blood to the brain. - Sweating
The body tries to cool itself down due to the increased heart rate and blood pressure. This results in sweating. - Pain in other parts of the body
Pain may be experienced as a result of the heart not getting enough blood and oxygen to the organs.
Testing & Diagnosis for Heart Attack
Diagnosing a heart attack requires prompt and accurate assessment to initiate timely treatment and minimize potential damage to the heart muscle. Physicians rely on a combination of clinical evaluations, medical history, and diagnostic tests to confirm the occurrence of a heart attack and determine its severity.
It's important to differentiate a heart attack from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Conditions such as panic attacks, heartburn, pulmonary embolism, and many other conditions can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations help rule out these possibilities and ensure accurate diagnosis. There are a number of tests that can be used to diagnose a heart attack, including:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
This test measures the electrical activity of the heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of a heart attack. - Chest X-ray
This test can show the size and shape of the heart, as well as any fluid buildup in the lungs. - Echocardiogram
This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart. An echocardiogram can show any damage to the heart muscle or valves. - Blood tests
Blood tests can be used to check for heart damage, as well as other conditions that may have caused the heart attack. - Cardiac catheterization
This test involves inserting a thin tube into a blood vessel in the arm or leg and threading it up to the heart. A dye is injected into the tube and the doctor uses X-rays to see the blood flow through the arteries.
Treatments for Heart Attack
The treatment for a heart attack depends on the severity of the attack and the patient's overall health. In some cases, only medications may be needed. In other cases, invasive treatment such as angioplasty or surgery may be necessary. Most people who have a heart attack can make a full recovery. However, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully during your recovery. This may include taking medications, making lifestyle changes, and participating in cardiac rehabilitation.
- Medications
Medications that may be used to treat a heart attack include nitroglycerin, aspirin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, antiplatelet drugs, and statins. - Angioplasty
This procedure uses a balloon to widen a narrowed coronary artery. Most patients may end up receiving a wide mesh tube called a stent to keep the blood vessel open. - Thrombolytic therapy
This therapy uses medication to dissolve blood clots that are blocking the coronary arteries. This is used only in special situations when patients are unable to go through procedures such as cardiac catheterization with possible angioplasty immediately. - Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
This surgery involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body and grafting it onto the coronary artery. - Intensive care
Patients who have had a heart attack may need to be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring and treatment.
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