A heart attack or an infarction happens when the blood flow in the arteries is blocked, leading to the death of heart muscle cells. The symptoms of infarction can start slowly and become unbearable over time, or they can come on suddenly and be intense.

It is crucial to identify and recognize the symptoms of infarction promptly, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly increase the chances of survival and minimize the damage to the heart.

What are the Symptoms of Infarction?

The most common symptoms of infarction include:.

Chest pain or discomfort. The pain can feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or fullness. It can be in the center of the chest or spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
Shortness of breath. The breathlessness can be sudden and severe or gradual and mild.
Sweating. The skin may become damp, cool, and clammy due to the release of adrenaline.
Nausea. The feeling of sickness or vomiting can be a result of the stress on the digestive system.
Dizziness or lightheadedness. The sensation of feeling faint or almost passing out can occur due to the reduced blood flow to the brain.
Fatigue. The overwhelming tiredness can be a sign of the body’s response to the infarction or a lack of oxygen.

What are the Types of Infarction?

There are different types of infarction, depending on the affected area and the severity of the damage:.

STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction). A total blockage of a coronary artery that requires immediate medical attention.
NSTEMI (Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction). A partial blockage of a coronary artery that can still cause chest pain and damage to the heart muscle.
Silent infarction. A type of infarction that has no symptoms or mild symptoms and can go undetected or misinterpreted as indigestion, fatigue, or anxiety.

What are the Risk Factors for Infarction?

Several factors can increase the risk of infarction, including:.

Smoking
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Obesity or overweight
Family history of heart diseases
Sedentary lifestyle
Age (men over 45 and women over 55)

What should you do if you suspect Infarction?

If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of infarction, it is essential to act fast and seek medical attention immediately. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital or clinic for evaluation and diagnosis.

The healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and imaging tests, such as a chest x-ray or a coronary angiogram.

How can Infarction be Prevented?

Preventing infarction is a long-term process that involves making healthy lifestyle choices and managing the risk factors associated with the condition. Some strategies that can help prevent infarction include:.

Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke
Eating a nutritious and balanced diet
Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight
Managing stress and mental health
Getting enough sleep and rest
Treating and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
Taking prescribed medications as directed and attending regular check-ups

Conclusion

Infarction can be a life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.

Knowing the symptoms of infarction, the types, the risk factors, and the prevention strategies can help reduce the incidence and severity of the condition and improve the quality of life for those affected. Seeking medical attention and adopting a healthy lifestyle can save lives and prevent further damage to the heart.