Like the rest of the body, the heart requires a supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. If any part of it is deprived of these for any length of time, as happens during a heart attack (myocardial infarction), it can result in heart damage. A heart attack may last as long as several hours, so it is essential to recognise the symptoms and act immediately.
Symptoms
Chest pain like angina with sweating, vomiting and much distress
There may be dizziness and irregular pulse
In diabetics and the elderly, this could manifest as silent infarction
In elderly people it may sometimes manifest as back pain in the chest regionCauses
Stress
High Blood Pressure which is not controlled either by non-compliance or inappropriate monitoring
Family history of heart disease
Smoking
High cholesterol
Obesity
ThrombosisTreatment ECG may or may not show the condition and often history is most important. Blood tests also confirm the diagnosis. This condition is best treated at hospital but it is very important to follow the advice for after care which usually involves making a change in lifestyle.
This may mean attending a rehabilitation centre where the condition, its outcome and remedies will be explained. The most important thing after an attack is not to be despondent, but to rebuild your life around reducing the trigger factors.
Anxiety is to be avoided, as this increases blood pressure that causes strain on the heart and may precipitate another attack. Stopping smoking, losing weight, taking gentle exercise like walking, reducing salt (beware of hidden salt), and saturated fats are all important.
Dr. A. Bose © allcures.com September 2002