hjärtinfarkten

Hjärtinfarkt, commonly known as a heart attack, is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked. This typically happens when a coronary artery, which supplies blood to the heart, becomes narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque, a fatty substance. When this plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form and obstruct blood flow. Without oxygen-rich blood, the heart muscle begins to die.

Symptoms of a hjärtinfarkt can vary but often include chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. This pain can radiate to the arms, jaw, neck, or back. Other common symptoms include shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, vomiting, and lightheadedness. Women may experience symptoms differently than men, sometimes presenting with less typical chest pain and more emphasis on fatigue, nausea, and pain in the abdomen or back.

Immediate medical attention is crucial for a hjärtinfarkt. Prompt treatment can limit damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of survival and recovery. Diagnosis involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the heart's electrical activity, blood tests to detect cardiac enzymes released when the heart muscle is damaged, and sometimes imaging tests like an echocardiogram or coronary angiography. Treatment aims to restore blood flow to the heart muscle as quickly as possible and may include medications to dissolve blood clots or prevent further clotting, as well as procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery. Lifestyle changes are also important for long-term management and prevention.