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During a heart attack, a blockage in a coronary artery
cuts off blood to an area of the heart muscle. The affected area dies,
while the surrounding heart muscle continues far less efficiently-to
pump blood. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Treatment with
clot-thinning drugs (tissue plasminogen activator or streptokinase)
within 4 hours of a heart attack can save a life (more than half of
those who die from a heart attack do so within 1 or 2 hours) or reduce
the amount of tissue damage. Proper treatment and rehabilitation will
allow a healing scar to form and the heart to regain strength. Most
patients can safely return to work within 2 months of the attack. Almost
40 percent of heart attack victims are still alive 10 years later.
Physical rehabilitation. The best post-attack therapy is gradual
but steady physical activity. Patients now are encouraged to get out of
bed within a few days of an attack and to start a supervised
cardiovascular fitness program before leaving the hospital. Many
hospitals and physicians' groups have set up therapy centers for heart
patients; similar programs are offered by YMCA's and other community
agencies. Any rehabilitation class you join (with your doctor's
approval) should be supervised by a doctor and should require a stress
test before accepting you.
Psychological rehabilitation. It is natural to be frightened by a
heart attack. Some people become depressed afterward and find it hard to
be optimistic about a future of curtailed activity. Patients and spouses
who might benefit from affectionate contact fear even broaching the
subject of sex after a heart attack. Professional counseling or joining
a self-help group for heart attack victims and their families may help
restore your confidence and perspective. Ask the hospital or your doctor
for names of such organizations.
Lifestyle adjustments. A heart attack is a sobering experience;
it may encourage you to take seriously your doctor's recommendations
about diet, exercise, losing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing
stress.
Medical follow-up. Your doctor may prescribe small doses of
aspirin (325 mg every other day) to avoid a recurrent heart attack. You
may need other drugs to prevent angina pain, to restore a normal heart
rhythm, to reduce fluid collection, or to lower your blood pressure.
Follow doses exactly and report any side effects (your doctor
may be able to change your medication). Go for checkups regularly and
call your doctor if you have specific medical questions.
Source: Reader's Digest: The Good Health Fact Book
Disclaimer: All the information on this page is strictly
provided for informational purposes to better educate yourself only. It is
not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other
medical professional. Do not use the information contained herein for
diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any
medication.
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