Heart attack in young adults

What is the difference between Heart attack (Myocardial infarction) vs Sudden cardiac arrest vs Sudden cardiac death ?

Heart attack (Myocardial infarction)  is a "Circulation problem" , wherein a blocked artery prevents oxygenated blood from reaching a part of heart. Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of  Heart attack (Myocardial infarction)

Whereas , Cardiac arrest is "Electrical problem" i.e.., There is electrical malfunction in the heart and it suddenly stops beating. Ventricular fibrillations is the most common cause of Cardiac arrest. Heart attacks can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

Sudden cardiac death is "unexpected sudden death due to cardiovascular disease that occurs within one hour of onset of symptoms". Structural cardiac abnormalities like Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HOCM) are the most common cause of Sudden cardiac death in 14-24 years. Fatal arrhytmias are most common cause of Sudden cardiac death in patients younger than 35yrs with structurally normal heart. In older people Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of Sudden cardiac death



Why is the incidence of  Heart attacks is increasing in recent times ?

Thrombosis (Blood clot formation) by COVID especially  in high risk individuals (Diabetes , Hypertension , Hypercholesterolemia , Smoking , Obesity , Steroid usage) accelerates Coronary artery disease . The thrombus can detach and cause cardiac ischemia and Myocardial infarction (Heart attack) .

Also Different supplements , Anabolic Steroids , Performance enhancing drugs used by Athletes and bodybuilders can further increase risk.

Stress (work related ; family related) is also important risk factor


How to prevent Heart attacks ?

Early cardiac screening is must for high risk individuals . { Risk can be easily calculated online by 10-year ASCVD risk estimator }

Cardiac screening tests include -

Basic tests like - 

Lipid profile 

ECG

ECHO

TREADMILL TEST


Advanced tests like (only recommended if high suspicion) -

Cardiac CT (Calcium score)

Coronary angiography


How to improve overall cardiac health ?


1) 150 minutes moderate intensity  aerobic exercise per week atleast ; I.e.., 30 minutes for 5 days per week atleast (cycling , badminton , swimming , running) and add moderate intensity muscle strength training atleast 2 days a week

2) High fiber foods (Fruits , Nuts , Seeds , Oats etc..,) ; Low saturated fat (less than 10% daily calorie) ; No transfat ; Avoid added sugars (icecreams , chocolates , sweets ) ; Avoid deep fried items etc..,

3) Avoid smoking , alcohol , steroids , illicit drugs 

4) Do meditation , yoga  and reduce stress


How to save your loved ones from Heart attacks outside hospital ?

When a person is conscious , make patient sit in "Heart safe position" call ambulance or take to hospital immediately


When a person is unconscious and is not breathing then follow ( DR'S CAB ) steps -

Danger - Look for scene safety

Response - Shout his name ; tap shoulders and see if person responds

Shout for help if no response (if anyone comes ask them to call ambulance)

Circulation - check for pulse

Airway - look for any obstructions in throat / airway

Breathing - look for chest rise , look if person is breathing or not


if no pulse and breathing Start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) i.e.., chest compressions : Ventilation = 30:2

and Defribillate (give shock) if AED (Automated External Defribillator) is available


You can learn BLS (basic life support) & First aid Courses if you are interested online ; even if you are not a health care professional


What steps can government take to save people from sudden cardiac deaths ?

Teaching CPR and first aid courses in schools and to general public 

Making AED (Automated External Defribillator --- Shock machines) available in shopping malls , theatres , schools , colleges etc.., similar to fire extinguisher



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