A heart attack is a medical emergency that occurs when a coronary artery is suddenly blocked, often due to plaque buildup. In Singapore, heart attacks are a leading cause of hospital admissions, and recognising the warning signs early can save lives. A blocked artery may severely damage the heart muscle, raising the risk of heart failure if not treated promptly.
Knowing how to respond in such a situation can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce long-term damage to the heart and blood vessels. This guide will walk you through the crucial steps to take when a heart attack occurs, helping to prevent future heart attacks and protect overall heart health.
Understanding a Heart Attack
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, happens when blood flow to the heart is suddenly restricted due to a blockage in the coronary arteries. This often results from a buildup of plaque, which can rupture and cause a blood clot to form, cutting off oxygen to the heart muscle. Without oxygen-rich blood, part of the heart muscle dies, leading to severe complications or cardiac arrest if not treated urgently.
Recognising the Symptoms
Identifying the symptoms of a heart attack quickly is essential to improve survival rates. Common signs of a heart attack include:
- Chest pain or discomfort – a pressing, squeezing, or burning uncomfortable sensation in the chest area.
- Pain radiating to other parts of the body – such as the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
- Shortness of breath – difficulty breathing even when at rest.
- Nausea or vomiting – more commonly experienced by women and older adults.
- Dizziness or light-headedness – which may lead to fainting.
- Cold sweats – inexplicable excessive sweating without physical exertion.
Not all heart attack symptoms are severe, and some people may only experience mild symptoms.
However, delaying treatment worsens outcomes, including death, heart failure, or stroke. If you notice any of these signs, act immediately. See your cardiologist.
Immediate Steps to Take
Call Emergency Services
Dial 995 (or your local emergency number) at the first sign or symptom of a heart attack. Do not attempt to drive to the hospital, as heart attack patients may lose consciousness en route. Prompt on-site medical attention from emergency medical services may help support blood flow to the heart and reduce the risk of further damage.
Help the Person Stay Calm and Still
Encourage the person to sit down and remain as still as possible, preferably in a semi-reclined position. This reduces strain on the heart and slows the progression of damage to the heart muscle.
Give Aspirin (If Safe to Do So)
Aspirin may help prevent further clot formation, but should only be taken if advised by a doctor or emergency personnel. If the person is conscious, not allergic to aspirin or NSAIDs, and has no history of stomach ulcers, offer a 300mg aspirin tablet to chew on while waiting for medical help.
Administer Prescribed Medication
If the individual has been prescribed nitroglycerin, assist them in taking it as directed. This medication helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart and relieving chest pain.
If the Person Becomes Unresponsive
Start CPR Immediately
If the person collapses and is not breathing normally, perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) immediately:
- Lay them flat on a hard surface.
- Place your hands in the centre of their chest, one on top of the other.
- Push down firmly at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute (follow the rhythm of Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees).
- Continue CPR until emergency medical personnel take over.
Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
AEDs, available in many public spaces like shopping malls and transport hubs, can help restore a normal heart rhythm. If one is accessible, follow the automated voice instructions carefully to deliver a controlled shock if needed.
Preventing a Heart Attack
Lifestyle Changes for Better Heart Health
Preventing a heart attack requires proactive steps to improve heart health and reduce the risk of another heart attack. Here are some key habits to adopt:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet – include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing LDL cholesterol, salt, and unhealthy fats, eg trans-fat, processed foods.
- Exercise regularly – 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity per week to maintain cardiovascular health.
- Quit smoking – tobacco use increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Limit alcohol intake – excessive alcohol consumption raises blood pressure and cardiac stress. .
- Manage stress – practice meditation, prayer, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce heart stress.
Regular Health Screenings
Routine check-ups help detect heart disease and stroke risk factors early. It is essential to monitor:
- Blood pressure – hypertension is a significant risk factor for heart attacks.
- Cholesterol levels – high LDL cholesterol increases plaque buildup in arteries.
- Blood sugar levels – individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Receive Heart Care at Gerard Leong Cardiology Clinic
Recognising the symptoms of a heart attack and acting quickly can mean the difference between life and death. First responder assistance- Calling for medical help, administering first aid, and performing CPR promptly- can improve the chances of survival.
At Gerard Leong Cardiology Clinic, we provide treatment and care for individuals at risk of heart disease and those recovering from a heart attack. Our team specialises in personalised treatment plans, comprehensive cardiovascular assessment, and preventive care to help reduce the risk of another heart attack and improve heart health.
By staying informed and making heart-healthy lifestyle choices, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from cardiovascular disease. Take action today to support better heart health.