“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), commonly known as a heart attack, is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This causes damage to the heart muscle and can be life-threatening.
The symptoms of an acute MI can include chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. The pain may also radiate to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.
If you suspect you or someone else is having a heart attack, call emergency services immediately. Early treatment can be crucial in preventing long-term damage to the heart and improving the chances of survival.
The diagnosis of an acute MI is made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests. Treatment usually involves medications, such as blood thinners and antiplatelet agents, to dissolve the clot and prevent further ones from forming. Other treatments may include procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery, to restore blood flow to the heart.
Recovery from an acute MI can take several weeks or months, and may involve cardiac rehabilitation, lifestyle changes, and ongoing medical management. Preventive measures, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, can also help reduce the risk of another heart attack.