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Aug 08, 2024 02:12 PM IST
Dr. Bharat Kukreti, Director and Unit Head, Cardiology, Paras Health, Gurugram talks in detail about coronary artery diseases
Here’s everything you need to know about coronary artery disease.
Who is at higher risk of heart attack and coronary artery disease (CAD)?
The main risk factors for heart attack are diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and a family history of heart disease. Increased stress, lack of exercise, poor eating habits and insufficient sleep are making even young adults and women vulnerable to heart attacks.
How to check CAD?
ECG, ECHO, stress tests are usually done to diagnose CAD, followed by invasive angiography or CT angiography. CT angiography is an OPD procedure that detects blockages with 80 to 90% accuracy in selected patients; not suitable for elderly patients with acute heart attack, breathlessness, abnormal heart rhythm and dense calcium deposits in coronary arteries. Chest pain in the first 3 hours, changes in ECG and troponin blood test reveal a heart attack after 3 to 6 hours. Invasive angiography is done to detect blockage which may require angioplasty
Does every angiography end in angioplasty?
Angiography in acute heart attack usually detects significant blockages and immediate angioplasty is life-saving and cannot be delayed.
But in non-emergency situations, up to 30 per cent of angiograms will show blockages that will require angioplasty. Initial medical treatment is considered safe even in patients who have not suffered an acute heart attack. Advanced tests like FFR and IVUS can also help in making better decisions. In case of doubt, the patient can always seek a second opinion.
Life after angioplasty
Recovery after angioplasty is fast but variable as it depends on the final heart pumping capacity (ejection fraction). Regular physical activity at home can be resumed the same day. Light to moderate activities can be done within 2 to 4 weeks. The patient needs to take blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering medications and must control his blood pressure and glucose. Ensure a healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep.
Life saving measures at community level
Every person should be taught to do CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). This can save precious lives from sudden cardiac arrest.
The author is Dr. Bharat.
Disclaimer: The veracity of the claims made in this article rests with the concerned doctor/hospital.
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