Overview
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or completely blocked. This blockage is typically caused by the buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, collectively forming plaques in the coronary arteries. The process of plaque accumulation is called atherosclerosis.
In some cases, a plaque may rupture, leading to the formation of a blood clot. This clot can obstruct the artery, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen-rich blood, which can result in serious damage or even death of heart tissue. Immediate medical intervention is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications. Eden Critical Hospital, Chandigarh, specialize in providing rapid and expert cardiac care to patients experiencing heart attacks.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Heart attack symptoms can vary from person to person. While some experience mild discomfort, others may have severe, life-threatening symptoms. In certain cases, individuals may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms at all.
Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort – A sensation of pressure, tightness, or aching in the chest
- Pain that radiates – Discomfort spreading to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or upper abdomen
- Cold sweat
- Fatigue
- Heartburn or indigestion-like symptoms
- Dizziness or sudden lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
Women may experience atypical symptoms, such as sharp pain in the neck, arm, or back. In some cases, the first sign of a heart attack may be sudden cardiac arrest.
While some heart attacks occur without warning, many patients experience early warning signs in the hours, days, or even weeks before an event. Angina, a recurring chest pain caused by temporary reductions in blood flow to the heart, may serve as a critical warning sign.
Emergency Response: What to Do
If you suspect you are having a heart attack, take the following steps immediately:
- Call Emergency Medical Services (EMS) – Dial 01724123456 or your local emergency number. If emergency services are unavailable, have someone drive you to the nearest hospital. Do not drive yourself unless absolutely necessary.
- Take Nitroglycerin (if prescribed) – If your doctor has prescribed nitroglycerin, take it as directed while waiting for medical help.
- Take Aspirin (if recommended) – Aspirin may help reduce heart damage by preventing further clot formation. However, it is essential to consult with emergency medical personnel or a healthcare provider before taking it, as it can interact with other medications.
At Eden Critical Hospital, Chandigarh, Dr. Saurabh Biswas and his team emphasize the importance of quick medical intervention and advanced cardiac care to minimize heart damage and improve patient outcomes.
Assisting Someone Having a Heart Attack
If you encounter someone who appears to be having a heart attack and they become unconscious:
- Call 01724123456 or emergency services immediately.
- Check for breathing and a pulse.
- If there is no pulse and the person is not breathing, begin CPR:
- If untrained in CPR, perform hands-only CPR, pressing hard and fast on the chest at 100–120 compressions per minute.
- If trained in CPR, perform 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths.
Eden Critical Hospital, Chandigarh, is fully equipped to handle cardiac emergencies and is dedicated to providing world-class heart attack treatment.
Conclusion
Heart attacks are a medical emergency that require immediate attention. Recognising the symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care can save lives. Eden Critical Hospital, Chandigarh is committed to providing advanced cardiac care with cutting-edge treatments and life-saving interventions. If you or a loved one experience heart attack symptoms, act fast—every second counts.
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