Myocardial infarction commonly known as heart attack is one of the cardiovascular diseases affecting
individuals and claiming lives. Heart attack occurs when the flow of blood to the heart muscle is
blocked. The heart may be blocked by fat, calcium, proteins and inflammatory cells. As a result,
the heart muscle dies due to the lack of oxygen.
The early warning signs of a heart attack ranges from mild chest pain to severe chest pain. One may
also feel pressure, heaviness, squeezing or discomfort in the chest or arm or below the breastbone.
Other symptoms may include severe weakness, anxiety, fatigue or shortness of breath.
When a person has these symptoms, the emergency services should be called immediately.
A heart attack can be detected through an electrocardiogram, cardiac catheterization, echocardiogram
and blood test to check different levels of cardiac enzymes in the blood.
Treatment of heart attack involves taking medication like anticoagulants or anti platelets. Clot busters
can also be done to dissolve blood clots in the heart’s arteries.
A heart attack can be prevented by having a healthy lifestyle. These include;
- Eating a well nutritious diet.
- Regular exercise
- Avoiding smoking
- Good quality sleep
- Maintaining a health body weight.
- Less intake of alcohol
- Maintaining blood pressure and cholesterol at safe levels.
Do not be a victim of myocardial infarction, it can be prevented. Live a healthy lifestyle and let’s prevent heart attack.
WORLD HEART DAY
