Ischemic heart disease (IHD), also known as coronary artery disease, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among heart diseases. The disease damages the arteries which supply blood to the heart muscle itself.

Risk factors of coronary artery disease include hereditary and behavioral factors:

• A family history of heart diseases.
• Hypertension.
• High levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood.
• Diabetes.
• Smoking.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Lack of physical activity.
• Obesity.

Preventing coronary artery disease

A healthy lifestyle, which includes regular physical activity, refraining from smoking, and healthy nutrition, can contribute to the prevention of coronary artery disease, and reduce the risk of mortality.

Heart attack is the commonly used name of a cardiac event or myocardial infarction.

Throughout the years, the question of whether it is possible to prevent a heart attack has been a recurring concern among individuals. However, The reality is that the prevention of a heart attack begins years before its actual onset, and it involves embracing a healthy lifestyle, engaging in suitable physical activity, and adopting a nutrition plan that aligns with principles such as the Mediterranean Diet.

What causes a heart attack

A heart attack occurs when there is an obstruction of one of the coronary arteries. Consequently, the tissue that was supplied with blood from the affected artery has ceased to function. The more central the blocked artery, the more extensive the damage and the more severe the impact of the attack.

Heart attack symptoms

The symptoms of a heart attack may vary among individuals and may differ between men and women.

Usually, a heart attack is accompanied by intense chest pain that may radiate to neighboring organs, including the shoulders, arms, jaw, face, neck, center of the chest (resembling heartburn), and upper abdomen. Shortness of breath may also occur concurrently with these pains.

If there is even the slightest doubt, it is strongly advised to seek immediate medical examination.
It should be noted that a silent heart attack, characterized by the absence of pain, is more common among older adults, individuals with diabetes, and women.

Medication treatment after a heart attack

Usually, after a heart attack, various medications are prescribed for further treatment according to the cardiologist’s decision. Occasionally, these are statins, blood thinners, antihypertensive drugs, etc.

When is heart catheterization necessary

In the event of a heart attack or in its aftermath, seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial. Following the assessment and the cardiologist's decision, an appropriate treatment plan will be determined. This may be conservative treatment through medication or invasive treatment of coronary catheterization, for example.

Complications after a heart attack

A heart attack may cause numerous complications such as arrhythmia) irregular heartbeat), and heart failure. These complications can arise as a result of the heart attack itself, the timing of the treatment process, and additionally, the potential complications associated with the treatment.

Heart failure is prevalent among older individuals and is associated with various risk factors including diabetes, obesity, hypertension, smoking, and an unhealthy lifestyle.

There are several types of heart failure, each requiring specific medication treatment.

Furthermore, it is important to customize physical activity for the patient, and assess whether they require supplemental oxygen support, for part of the day or for the whole day, based on their specific condition. Supplemental oxygen support can be obtained through a device adapted to the patient, which can be obtained through HMOs.