The Power of the Heart: Overcoming the Struggle of a Heart Attack

Heart diseases claim more lives globally than any other cause of death, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. Shockingly, 85% of these deaths are attributed to heart attacks. This means that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide and heart attack (also known as myocardial infarction) is the commonest cardiovascular disease. It's time to take our heart health seriously and adopt healthy lifestyle choices to prevent and manage these conditions. To successfully combat heart attacks, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the disease, its causes, signs and symptoms, risk factors, treatment approaches etc.

Heart attack is a condition in which the blood supply to the heart is suddenly blocked, usually due to a clot. This can cause permanent damage to the heart muscle, leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even death. For patients, understanding the causes and signs of a heart attack is essential for seeking prompt medical treatment and avoiding further complications.

COMMON CAUSES OF A HEART ATTACK

• Build-up of plaque in the arteries is the most common cause of heart attacks.
• Plaque accumulation occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances stick to the inside of the artery walls, narrowing the artery and reducing blood flow to the heart.
• A clot may form on top of the plaque and block the artery completely, causing a heart attack.
• Other causes of heart attacks include coronary artery spasm (a sudden tightening of the artery wall).
• High blood pressure, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes.

COMMON SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK

The most common signs of a heart attack include:

• Chest pain or pressure which is severe or intense in nature
• Chest pain may spread to one or both arms, neck, jaw, shoulder or back.
• Cold sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Dizziness

Other symptoms include fatigue and irregular heartbeat.

It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience any of these symptoms, as a heart attack can be fatal.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU ARE HAVING A HEART ATTACK?

• If you think you may be having a heart attack, call medical emergency services immediately.
• While waiting for emergency help during a heart attack, it is recommended to chew and swallow 300mg Aspirin to prevent blood clotting and potentially reduce heart damage. However, if you are allergic to aspirin or your healthcare provider has advised against it, do not take aspirin.
• If you suspect a heart attack and have been prescribed Nitroglycerin and blood thinners by your healthcare provider, take it according to their instructions while waiting for emergency medical assistance.
• Once you arrive at the hospital, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and order tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a blood test to confirm the diagnosis.

HOW IS HEART ATTACK TREATED?

Treatment for a heart attack typically includes medications to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow, as well as lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of another heart attack. Medications may include blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and drugs to reduce blood pressure. Lifestyle changes include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing stress. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to open blocked arteries or implant a stent.

By understanding the causes and signs of a heart attack, one can take the necessary steps to reduce the risk. 80% of deaths due to heart attack can be prevented trough lifestyle modification and timely medical intervention. If you experience any symptoms of a heart attack, do not wait – seek medical attention right away. With prompt treatment, you can avoid further damage to your heart and reduce your risk of death.

"The most important thing to remember about heart attack is that it can be prevented. Taking steps to live a heart-healthy lifestyle is the best way to reduce your risk of a heart attack."

Ref Link

https://www.heart.org/en/news/2019/04/04/reduce-chances-of-second-heart-attack

https://www.who.int/news-room/cardiovascular-diseases-avoiding-heart-attacks-strokes