Heart Attack: A Time-Sensitive Condition
Heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing damage to heart muscles. According to Professor Pham Manh Hung, General Secretary of the Vietnam Cardiovascular Association, time is crucial for treating heart attacks. Studies have shown that the optimal window for intervention is within two hours of symptom onset, resulting in the highest survival rates.
"Golden Hour" for Intervention
Research indicates that interventions such as angioplasty and stenting performed within two hours of chest pain or collapse significantly improve survival outcomes.
Alarming Statistics
However, statistics from the National Heart Institute (Hanoi) reveal a disheartening reality: only 2% of heart attack patients seek medical attention within the "golden hour." Around 40% arrive at the hospital within 12 hours, while many others delay seeking treatment past this critical window, leading to increased mortality and severe complications.
Consequences of Delayed Intervention
"Prompt cardiovascular intervention, including angioplasty and stenting, is paramount for saving lives," emphasizes Professor Hung. "After 12 hours, the heart muscle begins to die, and even if patients survive, they face a high risk of heart failure, arrhythmias, and reduced quality of life."
Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
Typical heart attack symptoms include:
- Crushing chest pain behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest
- Pain radiating to the left shoulder, inner left arm, ring finger, and little finger
- Sudden onset of pain lasting for over 30 minutes
- Accompanying symptoms such as sweating and shortness of breath
- Some cases may experience minimal or no pain (silent heart attack)
Immediate Action: Call for Help
At the onset of such symptoms, individuals should immediately stop all activities, rest, and administer sublingual nitroglycerin if diagnosed with coronary artery disease. If pain persists after 10-30 minutes, especially despite sublingual nitroglycerin, seek emergency medical attention.
High-Risk Individuals
Dr. Vu Hoang Vu, Head of the Interventional Cardiology Department at Ho Chi Minh City University Hospital, identifies several high-risk groups for heart attacks:
- People over 50
- Smokers
- People with high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes
- Family history of heart disease
Prevention Measures
To prevent heart attacks, experts recommend managing risk factors such as:
- Quitting smoking
- Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
- Managing diabetes
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
Advancements in Heart Attack Treatment
Medical advancements hold promise for improved heart attack outcomes, including:
- Targeted therapies specifically for heart attack and stroke
- Kardiosens devices for early detection