Myocardial Infarction is known as a heart attack. The management of a heart attack plays an important role in preventing complications. Heart attacks are very common, and the causes of heart failure include coronary hypertension, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, myocarditis, diabetes, obesity, alcohol and substance abuse, thyroid disease, and hyperlipidemia.
The disease is characterized by the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels of the heart, leading to an inability to pump blood effectively. The goal of managing heart failure is to relieve pain, stabilize the heart, minimize damage to the heart muscle, and reduce complications.
The management of Myocardial Infarction includes:
- Pain management: Nitroglycerin (GTN) is administered first. If the pain is not relieved by three doses of GTN, opioid analgesics like Morphine or Diazepam are administered parenterally.
- Oxygenation support if needed.
- Initial assessment and diagnosis upon arrival at the emergency department to assess and diagnose the condition and provide immediate support.
- Maintenance of blood volume, tissue perfusion, and microcirculation: This is achieved by slow saline infusion or using low molecular weight dextran to avoid overloading.
- Correction of acidosis: Sodium bicarbonate infusion is used to correct acidosis, which is developed due to the production of lactic acid.
- Prevention and treatment of arrhythmia: Prophylactic intravenous beta-blockers are given to prevent arrhythmias and reduce infarct size.
- Thrombolytic Therapy: The use of thrombolytic agents depends on the condition for breaking down or removing clots from the body.
- Medications: These include beta-blockers, antiplatelet agents, ACE/ARBs, statins, and pain relief medications.
- Monitoring of cardiac health through regular check-ups.
- Psychosocial support for patients: Emotional support is provided to reduce stress and improve their quality of life.
- Regular follow-up: It is necessary for heart patients because some medicines are only used short-term, while others are used for a lifetime. Regular follow-up is recommended.
The treatment plan varies according to the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are helpful in preventing complications. A healthy lifestyle with exercise and diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease.