Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Treatment in Delhi, India

A heart attack occurs when one of the coronary arteries becomes severely or completely blocked, usually due to a blood clot. The severity of a heart attack generally depends on how much of the heart muscle is injured during the heart attack. It is also known as Myocardial infarction because part of the heart muscle (myocardium) might die (infarction). A heart attack leads to permanent heart damage or death.

A coronary attack (heart attack) occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked (often by a blood clot). This happens because coronary arteries that supply the heart with blood slowly become thicker and harder from a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances called plaque.

If the plaque breaks open and a blood clot is formed that blocks the blood flow, a heart attack occurs. The heart muscle supplied by that artery begins to die. Damage increases the longer an artery stays blocked. Once the heart muscle dies, the result is permanent heart damage.

The main symptom of a heart attack is chest pain that is unrelieved by rest and often spreads or radiates through the upper body to the arms, neck, shoulders or jaw. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, sweating or nausea. In contrast with men, women are more likely to feel fatigue or nausea prior to a heart attack. In diabetic patients, the symptoms may be very mild or silent. 

The symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person. While some people may experience only mild heart attack symptoms, others may experience severe symptoms. If an individual experiences any early signs or symptoms of a heart attack, they must seek medical attention as soon as possible. The sooner a heart attack treatment is started, the less damage is done to the heart muscle.

Risk factors for heart disease include Hypertension (high blood pressure), Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), a family history of Heart Disease (particularly Premature Coronary Artery Disease), Cigarette Smoking, Sedentary Lifestyle and Diabetes.

Smoking - Increases the risk of heart attack three to four times over non-smokers. Smoking can cause artery muscles to contract, reducing blood flow to the heart.

High Blood Pressure - Causes blood to press too hard against the walls of the arteries, damaging the arteries and promoting the development of hardening of coronary arteries.

High Cholesterol: A fat substance found in foods of animal origin. High levels of cholesterol contribute to the formation of fatty buildup along the inside lining of the arteries, blocking the flow of blood.

High Triglycerides: A fat found in the blood and are the end product of sugar breakdown that contributes to plaque formation. Limited intake of sugars, starches and alcohol is recommended.

Diabetes: Diabetics are more than twice as likely to develop heart disease. Diabetes damages the artery walls and increases the risk of plaque formation. Diabetics need to keep their blood sugar levels normal and control their cholesterol and triglycerides. Check out the 25 foods to lower triglycerides.

Excessive Alcohol And Caffeine Intake Can raise cholesterol by raising the fat level in the blood. Alcohol consumption must be limited. Limit beverages with caffeine to two cups per day.

Obesity: Being overweight puts a direct strain on the heart. In the case of overweight people, the heart has to work harder to supply the extra tissue with blood. Losing weight decreases the cholesterol level and lowers the blood pressure.

Lack of Exercise: A balance of rest, relaxation and activity is needed for a healthy body. A balanced exercise programme is recommended. 

The goal of a heart attack treatment is restoring the flow of blood to the heart muscle as quickly as possible. This can be done with medications, procedures, or surgery.

Medications

Medications used to treat a heart attack include:

Aspirin: Aspirin helps to prevent blood clots from forming. It is usually given as soon as possible after a heart attack.

Clot-busting Drugs: These drugs help to break up blood clots that are blocking blood flow to the heart. They are usually given within 12 hours of the start of symptoms.

Blood Thinners: These drugs help to prevent blood clots from forming in the future. They are often taken for several months after a heart attack.

Procedures

Procedures used to treat a heart attack include:

Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting: Coronary Angioplasty is used to open a blocked artery. A thin tube with a balloon at the end is inserted into the artery, and the balloon is inflated to widen the artery. The procedure may also require stenting, wherein a stent, which is a small mesh tube, is inserted into a blocked artery to keep it open.

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG): Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery is used to create a new path for blood to flow around a blocked artery. A blood vessel from another part of the body is grafted to the coronary artery. Surgery may be needed if other treatments are not successful or if the heart muscle is severely damaged.

Angina pain is not the same as a Heart Attack. However, people with Angina have difficulty telling the difference between Angina symptoms and symptoms of a heart attack. Angina is a recurring pain or discomfort in the chest that happens when some part of the heart does not receive enough blood, temporarily. A person may notice it during exertion, such as while climbing stairs. It is usually relieved within a few minutes by resting or by taking medicines prescribed for Angina. People who have been diagnosed with Angina, though, have a greater risk of attack than other people. Prolonged Angina pain can lead to a heart attack.

Acting quickly can save many, many lives! Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort.

Here are some of the signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:

• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the centre of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, your back, neck, jaw or stomach
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
• Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or light-headedness

If you or someone you are with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the above signs, don't wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Call the emergency medical services (EMS) in your area or get to a hospital immediately.

Medication to lower cholesterol can prevent heart attacks and save the lives of people who are at high risk for a heart attack. That's why people who have already had one heart attack need to be treated to lower their cholesterol in order to prevent another one.

A heart-healthy diet refers to a diet that is low in sodium, cholesterol and fat. Foods that best meet this requirement are whole grains, fruits and vegetables. A diet high in sodium, fat and cholesterol is associated with higher blood pressure, increased weight and elevated blood cholesterol levels, all of which increase the chances that Atherosclerosis will occur. Atherosclerosis is a build-up of fatty deposits in the artery walls.

Those who get heart attack surgery must strive to: 

• Recover and resume normal activities
• Prevent another heart attack
• Prevent further complications like heart failure

After a heart attack or myocardial infarction treatment, one must see the doctor regularly for check-ups to see how the heart is doing.

Exercise is good for the heart muscle and overall health. It can help one lose weight, keep the cholesterol and blood pressure under control, lose weight and uplift one's mood.

After a heart attack treatment, most people are able to return to their normal activities. The time frame depends on many factors like age, muscle strength, and procedure performed. On average, four weeks after a heart attack, normal activity can be restarted.

Many hospitals and medical centres are not as thoroughly trained and equipped and may lack diagnostic and therapeutic services that currently are available for heart attack victims. At Max Hospital, Gurgaon, we not only have the modern diagnostic and imaging equipment and new therapeutic options to help all types of Heart Attack victims, but we also have the faculty, organisation, and experience to be one of the top centres of its kind in the country. Book an appointment now and get myocardial infarction treatment at Max Hospital, one of the leading heart attack hospitals in Delhi, India.

1. What are the early signs and symptoms of a heart attack?

The most common early signs and symptoms of a heart attack are:

• Chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or ache
• Pain that spreads to the arms, neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Sweating
• Fainting

2. What is the treatment for a heart attack?

The treatment for a heart attack will depend on the stage of the heart attack. In the pre-heart attack stage, treatment may include medications to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. In the heart attack stage, treatment may include medications to break up the blood clot, open the blocked artery, and prevent further damage to the heart muscle. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

3. What is supportive therapy for heart attack?

Supportive therapy for heart attack is a type of therapy that provides emotional and practical support to people who have recently had a heart attack. It can help them to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of recovering from a heart attack.

4. What is the cost of heart attack treatment in India?

The cost of heart attack treatment in India can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the type of treatment required (angioplasty, stenting, CABG surgery, etc.), the healthcare facility chosen, and the city where the treatment is being done. Max Healthcare provides a full range of heart attack treatment options with a commitment to providing affordable and high-quality care.

5. Who is the best heart surgeon at Max Hospital in Delhi?

We have a team of some of the best cardiologists in Delhi, each equipped with extensive experience, deep expertise and the latest technology to provide patients with the best possible care.

6. Can an ECG detect a heart attack?

Yes, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is one of the primary diagnostic tools used to detect a heart attack. It measures the electrical activity of the heart and can identify abnormalities that may indicate a heart attack, such as changes in heart rate, rhythm, and electrical patterns.

7. How can I reduce my risk of having a heart attack?

Reducing the risk of a heart attack involves lifestyle changes and medical interventions, including:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke.
• Limiting alcohol consumption.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques.
• Regular medical check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular risk factors.
• Taking prescribed medications for conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, or diabetes as directed.

8. Can hormone replacement therapy reduce my risk for heart disease?

The relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and heart disease is complex. Some studies suggest that HRT may actually increase the risk of heart disease, especially in older women. Therefore, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice.

9. Are the symptoms of a heart attack different for women?

Yes, while men are more likely to experience classic symptoms like chest pain, women may experience subtler symptoms such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Back or jaw pain
• Fatigue
• Lightheadedness

10. Can heart attacks be prevented or avoided?

While it's not possible to completely eliminate the risk, lifestyle changes and medical interventions can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack.

11. What is my risk of having another heart attack?

The risk of having another heart attack depends on various factors like age, overall health, and how well one manages cardiovascular risk factors. It's crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a personalised risk assessment.

12. How is smoking related to a heart attack?

Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease and heart attacks. It damages the lining of the arteries, leading to plaque buildup and reduced blood flow to the heart, thereby increasing the risk of a heart attack.

13. What are the “silent” signs of a heart attack?

The silent signs of a heart attack, which are often overlooked, include:

• Unexplained fatigue
• Mild, inconsistent chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Digestive issues like indigestion or heartburn

14. What is a minor heart attack?

A minor heart attack, often referred to as a "mild" or "small" heart attack, involves a partial blockage of the coronary artery, leading to less damage to the heart muscle compared to a major heart attack. However, it still requires immediate medical attention, as it can be a warning sign for more severe cardiac issues.

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