Heart Attack: Signs and Emergency Care | Dr. Mahesh Kharade
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, depriving it of oxygen. Recognizing the early warning signs and seeking immediate medical care can make a crucial difference in survival and recovery.
Dr. Mahesh Kharade, a leading Consultant & Interventional Cardiologist in Wakad, Pune, shares insights on the symptoms of a heart attack, the importance of early detection, and the emergency care needed to minimize complications.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
A heart attack happens when one or more coronary arteries become blocked, often due to:
- Plaque buildup (Atherosclerosis): Fatty deposits in the arteries restrict blood flow.
- Blood clots: A ruptured plaque can form a clot, blocking the artery.
- Coronary artery spasm: A temporary tightening of the artery can reduce or stop blood flow.
Lifestyle factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and stress increase the risk of a heart attack.
Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Many people ignore the initial symptoms of a heart attack, assuming they are due to minor issues like gas, acidity, or muscle pain. However, recognizing these early warning signs can be life-saving:
Common Symptoms in Men & Women
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: A feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that lasts for a few minutes or goes away and returns.
- Pain Radiating to the Left Arm, Jaw, or Back: The pain may spread beyond the chest to the shoulders, neck, and arms.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling breathless even at rest or with minimal exertion.
- Cold Sweats & Dizziness: Sudden sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness.
- Fatigue & Weakness: Unusual tiredness, especially in women, can be an early sign.
A typical Symptoms in Women
Women may experience less obvious symptoms, such as:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unexplained anxiety or palpitations
- Indigestion-like discomfort
- Pain in the upper abdomen
Many women delay seeking medical attention because their symptoms don’t always include the classic chest pain.
What to Do During a Heart Attack?
If you or someone around you experiences symptoms of a heart attack, take immediate action:
- Call Emergency Services (108 or 102 in India) Immediately – Every second counts!
- Chew an Aspirin (300 mg) – Helps thin the blood and improve circulation.
- Stay Calm and Rest – Avoid exertion and sit in a comfortable position.
- Use Nitroglycerin (If Prescribed) – Helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow.
- Do Not Drive Yourself to the Hospital – Seek an ambulance for quick medical assistance.
Emergency Care for a Heart Attack
Upon reaching the hospital, the medical team will conduct immediate tests such as:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects irregular heart activity.
- Blood Tests (Troponin Levels): Measures heart muscle damage.
- Angiography: Identifies blockages in the arteries.
Treatment Options
Depending on the severity of the blockage, the following treatments may be performed:
- Thrombolytic Therapy: Clot-dissolving medications to restore blood flow.
- Angioplasty & Stenting: A catheter with a balloon is used to open blocked arteries, followed by stent placement.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): A surgical procedure to create a new pathway for blood flow around blocked arteries.
Preventing a Heart Attack
The best way to avoid a heart attack is by adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Reduce saturated fats, refined sugars, and processed foods. Include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
- Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
- Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Control Underlying Conditions: Keep diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in check with regular health checkups.
When to See a Cardiologist?
If you have chest pain, frequent shortness of breath, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease, consult a cardiologist immediately. Early detection and timely intervention can prevent serious heart conditions.
Dr. Mahesh Kharade, a trusted Interventional Cardiologist in Wakad, Pune, specializes in heart disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. If you or a loved one have concerns about heart health, do not delay seeking expert medical advice.
A heart attack can be fatal, but early recognition of symptoms and immediate emergency care can save lives. Knowing the warning signs, taking prompt action, and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
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