Can a heart attack be stopped while it's happening?
A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a portion of the heart is blocked, depriving it of oxygen and causing heart muscle damage. This blockage is usually caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to a condition called coronary artery disease (CAD). When a plaque ruptures, it can form a blood clot that completely or partially obstructs the artery. Once a heart attack begins, stopping it immediately is extremely difficult, but early intervention can minimize damage and potentially save a life.
Recognizing a Heart Attack
The first step in stopping or limiting the damage from a heart attack is recognizing its symptoms and acting quickly. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, pain radiating to the arms, neck, or jaw, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, cold sweats, and extreme fatigue. Women may experience additional atypical symptoms, such as back pain or indigestion-like discomfort.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you suspect a heart attack, the first and most crucial step is to call emergency medical services (EMS) immediately. Delaying treatment can result in irreversible heart damage or death. While waiting for emergency responders, there are steps that can help reduce the severity of the attack:
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Take Aspirin – Chewing (not swallowing whole) a 325 mg aspirin can help slow blood clot formation. Aspirin works as an antiplatelet, preventing the clot from getting larger and potentially restoring some blood flow.
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Use Nitroglycerin (if prescribed) – If the person has been prescribed nitroglycerin for angina (chest pain related to heart disease), taking it as directed can help widen the blood vessels, improving blood flow.
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Stay Calm and Rest – Exertion increases the heart’s oxygen demand, so remaining as still and calm as possible can help reduce stress on the heart.
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CPR or AED (if needed) – If the person collapses, becomes unresponsive, and stops breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be performed immediately. An automated external defibrillator (AED), if available, can be used to deliver an electric shock to restart the heart’s rhythm.
Medical Interventions
Once at the hospital, doctors will take several steps to stop the heart attack and prevent further complications:
- Thrombolytic Therapy (Clot-Busting Drugs) – Medications such as tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) or streptokinase can dissolve clots and restore blood flow if administered within a few hours of symptom onset.
- Angioplasty and Stenting – A procedure called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) involves inserting a catheter into the blocked artery, inflating a balloon to open it, and placing a stent to keep it open.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG) – In severe cases, a bypass surgery may be needed to reroute blood around the blocked artery.
Can a Heart Attack Be Stopped?
While a heart attack cannot always be "stopped" instantly, early intervention can limit its damage and improve survival rates. Rapid response, medication, and medical procedures can restore blood flow, reducing the risk of permanent damage. The best way to prevent heart attacks is through healthy lifestyle choices, regular check-ups, and managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
