Heart Attack – Myocardial Infarction: Symptoms, Prevention, Tests

A heart attack happens when something blocks the blood flow to your heart so it can’t get the oxygen it needs. Heart attacks are also called myocardial infarctions (MI). “Myo” means muscle, “cardial” refers to the heart, and “infarction” means death of tissue because of a lack of blood supply. This tissue death can cause lasting damage to your heart muscle. Heart attacks can happen to anyone and it is important to get yourself checked if you face any symptoms.

Symptoms of Heart Attacks

• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint.
• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders.
• Shortness of breath.

How to prevent heart attacks

Here are some of the ways you can prevent a heart attack:

• Don’t smoke or use tobacco
• Aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity daily
• Eat a heart-healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Get good quality sleep
• Get regular health screenings
• Tests and Health Checkups One Should Undergo

Here are the tests and health checkups that are recommended by doctors for individuals who are showing symptoms of heart attacks:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol tests, starting by age 20 for most people
• Blood glucose tests, starting by age 40 to 45 for most people
• Body mass index (BMI) measurement, based on body weight or waist circumference
• Electrocardiography (ECG, EKG)
• Exercise cardiac stress test
• Echocardiography
• Nuclear stress test
• Cardiac CT scan for calcium scoring
• Coronary CT angiography (CTA)
• Coronary catheter angiography

If you are concerned about your heart and need medical assistance, Mahabir Doctor’s Hub has some of the best cardiologist doctors in Siliguri which can cater to your health heart needs. You can reach out to Mahabir Doctor’s Hub at +91 9933868686 or 03532525600 for Mahabir Doctor’s Hub with a cardiologist.