ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION (HEART ATTACK)
Acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is suddenly reduced or completely blocked. The resulting lack of oxygen can cause damage to the heart muscle, and the extent of injury depends largely on the duration and severity of the blockage.
A heart attack most commonly occurs when an atherosclerotic plaque inside a coronary artery ruptures and triggers the formation of a blood clot. The clot can partially or completely block the artery and interrupt blood flow to the heart muscle.
SYMPTOMS OF A HEART ATTACK
Symptoms can vary from one patient to another. Common symptoms include:
• Chest pain, pressure, heaviness or tightness.
• Pain or discomfort that may spread to the arm, shoulder, back, neck or jaw.
• Shortness of breath.
• Cold sweating.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Dizziness or a feeling of fainting.
• Sudden severe weakness or unusual fatigue.
Some patients may have less typical symptoms, particularly older adults and patients with diabetes. Therefore, new or unexplained chest symptoms should not be ignored.
WHEN IS IT AN EMERGENCY?
A suspected heart attack requires immediate emergency medical assessment, especially when chest pain or pressure is persistent or associated with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness or severe weakness.
Every minute matters. Prolonged blockage of a coronary artery can result in progressive damage to the heart muscle.
HOW IS A HEART ATTACK DIAGNOSED?
Diagnosis is based on the patient's symptoms, clinical examination and appropriate investigations, which may include:
• Electrocardiogram (ECG).
• Cardiac blood tests, particularly troponin.
• Echocardiography (Echo).
• Coronary angiography and cardiac catheterization when indicated.
CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION IN ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Coronary angiography and cardiac catheterization are among the most important treatments for patients with an acute heart attack caused by an acute coronary artery blockage.
During catheterization, the coronary arteries are visualized to identify the location and severity of the blockage. When appropriate, the blocked artery can be treated during the same procedure using balloon angioplasty and coronary stent implantation to restore blood flow to the heart muscle.
The main goal of treatment is to restore blood flow as quickly as possible and minimize permanent damage to the heart muscle.
PRIMARY PERCUTANEOUS CORONARY INTERVENTION (PCI)
In patients with an acute coronary occlusion, primary PCI may be performed as an emergency procedure to reopen the affected artery.
Depending on the anatomy and clinical condition, treatment may involve balloon angioplasty, coronary stent implantation and other advanced interventional techniques.
EARLY TREATMENT MATTERS
The sooner the blocked coronary artery is opened and blood flow is restored, the greater the opportunity to limit heart muscle damage and reduce the risk of complications.
Recovery after a heart attack depends on the extent of heart muscle injury, the underlying coronary artery disease and the patient's overall health.
CARE AFTER A HEART ATTACK
Following treatment, patients require careful follow-up and a comprehensive plan to reduce the risk of another cardiovascular event.
Management may include:
• Taking prescribed medications regularly.
• Controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol.
• Stopping smoking.
• Following a heart-healthy diet.
• Gradually returning to physical activity according to medical advice.
• Regular cardiology follow-up.
• Cardiac rehabilitation when appropriate.
PREVENTING FUTURE HEART ATTACKS
The risk of another heart attack can be reduced by controlling cardiovascular risk factors, including:
• High blood pressure.
• High cholesterol.
• Diabetes.
• Smoking.
• Excess body weight.
• Physical inactivity.
• Unhealthy diet.
• Family history of cardiovascular disease.
SPECIALIZED CARDIAC CARE
Each patient is assessed individually to determine the cause and location of the coronary blockage, the severity of coronary artery disease and the most appropriate treatment strategy.
Depending on the patient's condition, treatment may include medical therapy, coronary angioplasty, stent implantation or other advanced coronary interventions.
If you experience symptoms that may indicate a heart attack, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Do not wait for the symptoms to improve, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce heart muscle damage and serious complications.