If you have coronary heart disease, are you afraid that you will have a myocardial infarction if you are alone at home? Cardiovascular Doctor: You Should Look at It Scientifically" Last month, when Zhang Bo was alone at night, he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his chest. His breathing became rapid, his heart was racing, and there was only one thought in his mind: 'Am I going to have a heart attack?' This concern is not unique to Uncle, and many people with coronary heart disease have similar experiences, fearing that if they are alone at home, they may suddenly have a heart attack. "In this article, we will invite experts in the cardiovascular field to unravel this common concern and scientifically explain the actual association between coronary heart disease and myocardial infarction. Through in-depth understanding, we hope to help the majority of patients with coronary heart disease to look at their own conditions more scientifically, effectively reduce unnecessary panic, and provide practical management strategies and countermeasures. Let's explore together to learn how to live safely and positively with coronary heart disease.
Understanding Coronary Heart Disease: The Basics and Common Myths
Definition and causes of coronary heart disease: Coronary heart disease (coronary artery disease) is a condition caused by narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (blood vessels in the heart). These narrowings are usually caused by atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the lining of blood vessels to form plaque. This accumulation reduces the heart's ability to obtain oxygen and nutrients, leading to damage to the heart muscle. Symptoms and diagnosis of coronary heart disease Typical symptoms include chest pain (angina), difficulty breathing, and fatigue. These symptoms tend to occur during physical activity or emotional stress and are relieved with rest. Doctors usually diagnose coronary heart disease through tests such as electrocardiogram, coronary angiography and ultrasound of the heart.
Risk of myocardial infarction in patients with coronary artery disease
The triggering mechanism of myocardial infarctionMyocardial infarction, often called a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to the coronary arteries is suddenly blocked. The most common cause is a sudden rupture of plaque, forming a blood clot that completely blocks the artery supplying the blood. With no blood supply, heart muscle cells begin to die, a critical medical condition that requires immediate treatment. Factors influencing riskAlthough all patients with coronary artery disease are at risk of myocardial infarction, the actual level of risk is influenced by a number of factors: lifestyle: smoking, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity significantly increase the risk of myocardial infarction. Control other conditions: Poorly controlled conditions such as high blood pressure, abnormal glucose metabolism (diabetes), and high cholesterol can further exacerbate the risk. Genetic factors: a family history of early-onset cardiovascular disease may also increase the patient's own risk. Statistics and preventive significance studies have shown that appropriate lifestyle changes and medical interventions can significantly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction. For example, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, quitting smoking, and engaging in regular physical activity are all effective strategies to prevent myocardial infarction. Through the above, we not only need to understand the basics of coronary heart disease and the risk of myocardial infarction, but also need to actively take preventive measures to manage our health conditions. Correct knowledge and behavioural changes can significantly reduce the occurrence of cardiac events and improve quality of life.
Daily management: how to scientifically reduce the risk of myocardial infarction
Dietary regulation: Heart-friendly eating habits: The diet of patients with coronary heart disease should focus on lowering blood lipids and preventing arteriosclerosis. It is recommended to increase foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as deep-sea fish, as well as fiber-rich whole grains and vegetables, which can help lower blood cholesterol levels and improve heart health. At the same time, reduce the intake of high-fat, high-salt foods to reduce the burden on the heart. Regular physical activity: Moderate levels of physical activity to enhance heart function have significant benefits for the heart. People with coronary heart disease are advised to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. These activities help strengthen the heart muscle and increase heart efficiency while helping to control weight and blood pressure. Stress management: Reducing emotional burdenPersistent mental stress can worsen coronary heart disease symptoms and increase the risk of myocardial infarction. People with coronary heart disease are recommended to learn and practice stress-reducing techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Engaging in these activities on a regular basis can help reduce stress and improve mental state, which can have a positive impact on heart health.
Medication guidance: rational use of cardiovascular drugs
For people with coronary heart disease, doctors may recommend antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin to prevent blood clots or statins to lower cholesterol levels. Patients should take these medications exactly as prescribed, and check their blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly to ensure that the medications are effective and to adjust the dosage. Self-monitoring: Understand and record health indicators, educate patients to use blood pressure monitors and ECG monitoring devices for daily self-testing. Regular blood pressure and heart rate records can help patients and doctors better understand changes in their condition and adjust their treatment plans in a timely manner. Through these daily management strategies, patients with coronary heart disease can not only effectively reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, but also improve their quality of life and reduce their dependence on emergency medical services. These measures require patients to work closely with their medical team to ensure that each measure is tailored to the individual's health status.