Acute myocardial infarction is one of the most worrisome cardiac emergencies, with serious complications for patients. Its occurrence is closely linked to risk factors such as uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension. If a person presents with oppressive pain, located in the center of the chest, which may be accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, it could be a heart attack, and it is crucial to act immediately. Dr. Felipe Anhuaman, cardiologist at Centro Médico Clínica Ricardo Palma – Sede Plaza Lima Sur, explains what to do in the event of a heart attack.

Why is it important to act immediately in the event of a heart attack?

Prolonged chest pain, lasting more than 10 minutes, requires urgent medical attention to save the life of the affected person and avoid serious damage to the heart, brain and kidneys. People at greatest risk of suffering a heart attack are patients with uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic smokers and those with high cholesterol or triglycerides. The risk is higher in men and starts at the age of 35.

How to help a person who may be having a heart attack?

• Recognize the symptoms. Pay attention if the affected person has severe chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness. If in doubt, go to the emergency room.
• Go to an emergency room. It is very important to do this as quickly as possible, as prompt attention can save the heart. Be sure to do so with caution. If it is not possible or too difficult to move the patient, request help for immediate evacuation.
• Remain calm. Reassure the affected person if he or she is conscious. Remaining calm can make it easier to observe the signs and symptoms that doctors will ask about in the emergency department to take an objective medical history.
• Mentally review the history. Providing concise and accurate information about the patient’s history upon admission to the emergency department will help physicians work more quickly and efficiently.
• Collaborate with the emergency team. Emergency areas are stressful zones; therefore, provide only the information they ask for or those details that you consider very important. In the event of a heart attack, acting quickly is crucial, and the information you provide can help save the patient’s life.

Remember:

• It is essential to maintain constant control of risk factors in patients. It is even more important to perform periodic cardiological controls, especially in those with a history of having suffered a heart attack or other conditions. This will help reduce the risk of a new cardiac or cerebral event, alleviate associated symptoms and guarantee a good quality of life, thus minimizing possible complications.
• Attend your medical-occupational check-ups and cardiology consultations on a regular basis. From the age of 35, it is advisable to have an electrocardiogram, since this test can help prevent a heart attack up to five years before it occurs, which makes it a useful tool for monitoring and control of the patient.
• The heart is an organ that never stops working; any uncontrolled disease can affect it. Therefore, it is essential that all previous illnesses are well medicated and controlled.

Dr. Felipe Anhuaman
Cardiologist at Centro Médico Clínica Ricardo Palma – Sede Plaza Lima Sur