When it comes to your heart health, your everyday choices play a vital role in reducing your risk of cardiac problems. Heart attack for that matter is one of the primary causes of death worldwide, which occurs when there is a sudden blockage of blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle, typically due to a blood clot forming in a narrowed or blocked coronary artery. The survival rate for a heart attack varies based on factors, such as the severity of the heart attack, the timeliness of medical intervention, the overall health of the individual, and access to medical care.
In general, a significant percentage of people who experience a heart attack survive and go on to live healthy and productive lives. However, that requires discipline and necessary lifestyle choices. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Subrat Akhoury, Director-Cath Lab and Interventional Cardiologist and Head, Asian Hospital, Faridabad, shares some insightful details.
Why Heart Attack Is Concerning
“Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the main causes of untimely death among people in the 21st century,” says Dr Akhoury, adding, “In the last few years the number of people facing a sudden cardiac arrest has increased alarmingly, simultaneously the age of the people in the risk bracket is steadily getting lower.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for an estimated 1.79 crore deaths each year. “More than four out of five CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, and one third of these deaths occur prematurely in people under 70 years of age,” the global health body adds.
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The sudden onset of the heart attack is what makes it so dangerous. Symptoms, such as sensation of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or general pain in various body areas, such as one or both arms, the back, neck, stomach, or jaw, can occur due to a heart attack, but can go amiss since it shares similarities with other health issues including GERD, anxiety, etc..
As per a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, women are more likely than men to die within the first few weeks after a heart attack. This is because compared to men, women have smaller arteries and may experience different symptoms of heart disease compared to men, which can sometimes cause delay in diagnosis.
However, studies have shown survival rates for people hospitalised for heart attacks are approximately 90-97%.
Heart Attack Survivors Need To Take Healthy Measures
As per Dr Akhoury, most people recover from their first heart attack and go on to lead long, fulfilling lives. A second heart attack will, however, occur in about 20% of people aged 45 and older within five years of the first, he says. This is why taking steps to avoid another heart attack should be your priority.
Take your prescribed medications
Certain medications can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing another cardiac attack. You must comprehend how to take your medications because of this. Find out how to administer your meds.
Attend your scheduled follow-ups
Keeping track of your condition and recovery will be easier for your doctors if you attend your follow-up appointments. By getting ready for your appointment, you can make the most of your time with your doctor.
Participate in cardiac rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is a programme run under medical supervision to aid in your recovery following a heart attack. Ask your doctor if you didn’t receive a referral to cardiac rehab when you were released from the hospital.
Get assistance
After a heart attack, it’s common to feel afraid, overpowered, or puzzled. You can deal by seeking out assistance from family members or those who have also had a heart attack.
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Control your risk factors
It’s crucial to control risk factors (including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes) after a heart attack by taking medicine, giving up smoking, eating a balanced diet, and exercising. healthy food and getting active.
In addition, Dr Akhoury highlights the importance of being ready to face any such medical emergency.
“A quick reaction time is of paramount importance in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest. In case one goes through any such medical emergency, it is important to act swiftly and follow the necessary steps to handle the situation.” These include feeling the pulse, performing a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), calling an ambulance, and continuing with the CPR, he shares.
Conclusion
While a heart attack is a serious and often a life-altering event, advanced medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and ongoing care have significantly improved the chances of survival and recovery. By emphasising preventive measures, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, and adhering to medical guidance, individuals who have survived a heart attack can strive for a better quality of life and continue to enjoy meaningful and fulfilling years ahead.
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