CAD is the most common cause of heart attacks. Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances. This leads to the narrowing of the arteries and restricted flow of blood.
Accumulation of fatty deposits in the arterial wall over time leads to atherosclerosis. This may start as early as childhood and progresses with the factors of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes.
Plaque Rupture: When a plaque ruptures, the inner material becomes exposed to the blood, which leads to the formation of a clot at the site. The clot may fully block the artery.
Reduced Blood Flow: If the blood circulation is not reinstated in due time, the heart tissue is likely to begin deteriorating from the anoxia. The degree of damage normally correlates with how long the supply of blood is cut off.
According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming approximately 17.9 million lives each year, with heart attacks being a significant contributor. Among Indian nationals, it has been reported that heart disease is found to be the main cause of death, with 1.8 million people dying annually due to heart attacks. Prevention and early detection are significant factors in addressing these frightening figures.
Chest pain is commonly recognized as the classic symptom of a heart attack; however, it's essential to understand that symptoms can vary widely between individuals. Here are some common signs of a heart attack:
Chest Pain or Discomfort: It can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or a burning feeling in the chest. This can feel like uncomfortable pressure, a weight, or a band around the chest, lasting more than a few minutes or coming and going.
Shortness of Breath: This can be associated with or without chest discomfort. People will feel that they cannot get enough air, or that breathing is labored or uncomfortable even when at rest.
Pain or discomfort elsewhere: Pain associated with a heart attack often radiates to other areas, such as:
Cold Sweat, Nausea, or Dizziness: Most people also experience sweating, nausea, or dizziness.
Tiredness: Many women experience unusual tiredness or weakness.
Some people will present with atypical symptoms. This makes it even tougher to determine and diagnose the heart attack.
Also, Read: Top 6 Silent Heart Attack Symptoms
Call Emergency Services: If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait to see if they go away. Call emergency services immediately, as prompt action can be lifesaving.
Act Fast: Every second counts. The sooner the heart muscle is starved of oxygen, the worse it gets.
While waiting for medical assistance, here are some steps you can take:
Understanding the risk factors that lead to heart attacks is crucial for taking preventive measures. The major risk factors include:
Adopting dietary changes is essential. Consider following an antihypertensive diet, which may include medications like diuretics to help lower blood pressure.
Lifestyle adjustment measures include;
Regular medical checkups can watch for risk factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Early identification and treatment of these can significantly decrease the risk of a heart attack.
Also, read: How to Stop a Heart Attack in 30 seconds
Stress is one of the primary causes of heart disease. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as yoga meditation, or deep breathing exercises to enhance the overall heart condition.
Being aware of the signs of a heart attack and knowing how one happens is important because it may enable timely interventions. Recognizing the early signs of a heart attack can save lives and prompt immediate medical attention. People should be on the lookout for noticing their bodies and rush to the nearest hospital if it feels that something is seriously wrong, probably a heart attack. Knowing your risk factors for heart disease and taking pre-emptive lifestyle action can take great strides to prevent heart disease and achieve good health. Remember, a minute counts for a lot of things when you are in a medical emergency so act fast and wisely.
Artemis Cardiac Care is one of the best heart hospitals in Chennai. If you have any symptoms of heart disease, book an appointment today!
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