WHAT IS ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION?
In general terms, Acute Myocardial Infarction is known as a “Heart Attack”. It is an emergency medical condition that occurs due to blockage in the coronary arteries and is life-threatening. The heart muscles or tissues begin to damage due to a lack of supply of blood to certain arteries. The blockage in the muscles or arteries is the result of the formation of plaque (a sticky substance made up of fats, cholesterol, cellular waste products) or due to the building up of clots that are responsible for cutting off the blood supply to the heart. Quick restoration of blood flow into the heart can save lives. If not treated on time, even the delay of a few seconds can lead to permanent heart damage or death.
WHAT LEADS TO ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION?
The core organ of the cardiovascular system is the heart. The human heart is made up of blood vessels called arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart and other body parts. The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying the oxygenated blood to the heart so that it can function efficiently. Plaque sometimes may burst or rupture inside the coronary artery and a blood clot may stick to it. This creates a blockage in the path of blood flow and narrows the arteries. As a result, the blood fails to reach the heart muscle causing a heart attack.
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COMMON SYMPTOMS FOR ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
The most common symptoms of a Heart Attack include-
- Pain in the chest
- shortness of breath
- vomiting
- anxiety
- faster heart rate
- sweating
- dizziness, lightheadedness
- pain in upper back, neck, arms
DIAGNOSIS
Once the patient is admitted to the hospital, the health care provider prescribes certain tests and procedures that are important for the treatment and quick recovery. Some of the common tests include-
– Echocardiogram
– Angiogram
– CT scan
– Heart MRI
– Nuclear heart scans
– ECG
– Some common blood tests
TREATMENT
The basic treatment of a Heart Attack starts in a hospital where certain medical procedures are followed and the patient is given immediate care. Certain medications are given to reduce pain and stabilize the heart rate. Patients are given blood thinners for a smooth flow of blood. After diagnosis and rectification of the actual cause of the heart attack, if required, surgery is performed to stabilize the patient. Regular follow-up, specific medication, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle become the new normal for the patient.
When patients are kept on blood thinners such as WARFARIN, they are asked to monitor their PT/INR level regularly. With PATIENT SELF TESTING, it is convenient for them to perform the test at home with the help of PT/INR MONITORS where they can get an accurate reading within seconds and blood-thinning medications can then be adjusted.