Exclusive: A Cardiologist Shares Insights About Surviving A Heart Attack, Risk Factors And Treatments

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In recent times, thanks to advanced treatments, the number of individuals surviving a heart attack has increased in manifolds. However, it is essential to know that surviving a heart attack can have a significant impact on the long-term survival and well-being of these individuals.

In an interview with Boldsky, Dr Rockey Katheria, Consultant, Interventional Cardiology Manipal Hospital shares insights about surviving a heart attack, pre-existing risk factors, and prompt treatments.

Moreover, an episode of heart attack also puts them at greater risk of other cardiac events or a second attack and many other concerning health conditions. It is not an unusual or rare finding in our clinical practice, and a recent study conducted by the University of Leeds has published similar results.

The study analyzed a vast dataset of over 145 million patient records spanning nine years to reveal alarming statistics regarding the heightened susceptibility of heart attack survivors to develop health conditions in the future.

The study also stated that about one-third of heart attack survivors are at risk of developing heart conditions, including atrial fibrillation, peripheral arterial disease, stroke, heart failure, kidney failure, type 2 diabetes, bleeding disorders, and depression.

Furthermore, the research highlighted a concerning trend of heart attack survivors being at constant and elevated risk of developing several other health conditions compared to individuals who had not experienced a heart attack.

Other factors, including prompt treatment and pre-existing risk factors, also influence the likelihood of developing cardiac or other complications following a heart attack.

Individuals who fail to seek timely treatment either due to ignoring the symptoms, presuming them to be of other non-serious health conditions with similar symptoms (for instance, gastritis or reflux symptoms, lack of access to standard healthcare are particularly vulnerable, as the damage to the heart muscle may be more extensive, increasing the likelihood of future cardiac events.

Moreover, individuals with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, and unhealthy lifestyle habits are at an even higher risk.

When Is The Risk Of Cardiac Arrest Highest?
In terms of prognosis, patients need to understand that the risk of another cardiac event is highest in the first year post-heart attack, gradually decreasing in the following years.

It is also crucial to know that the risk of cardiac and other complications after surviving a heart attack can be significantly reduced by proactive health management. It includes regular follow-ups with healthcare providers to monitor and timely manage the risk factors such as blood sugar and cholesterol levels and lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Therefore, surviving a heart attack is a wake-up call to prioritize proactive health management. The journey towards recovery from a heart attack may be challenging. By taking proactive steps to manage risk factors and embrace a heart-healthy lifestyle, individuals can navigate life after a heart attack with confidence and resilience.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.