A myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack, is one of the most serious and life-threatening cardiovascular emergencies. It occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is suddenly blocked, typically by a blood clot, cutting off oxygen and causing tissue damage.

At Z. Kounnis Cardiology Center, we stress the importance of rapid diagnosis and immediate treatment — because minutes can mean the difference between survival and irreversible heart damage.

🫀 What Is a Myocardial Infarction?

A myocardial infarction happens when the coronary arteries — the vessels that supply blood to your heart — become narrowed by a build-up of plaque. When a plaque ruptures, a clot can form and block blood flow, starving the heart of oxygen. Without urgent treatment, the heart muscle begins to die.

The longer the blockage remains, the more damage occurs. That’s why recognizing the early signs and acting fast is absolutely critical.

🚨 Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Heart attack symptoms can vary between individuals, but the most common warning signs include:

• Chest pain or pressure (often described as squeezing or heaviness)
• Shortness of breath
• Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cold sweat
• Fatigue or dizziness
• A sense of impending doom or anxiety

Some people, especially women, the elderly, or individuals with diabetes, may experience "silent" symptoms — subtle or even no chest pain. This makes awareness even more important.

⚠️ What Causes a Heart Attack?

The leading cause of myocardial infarction is coronary artery disease (CAD), which gradually narrows the arteries due to plaque build-up. Additional risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Chronic stress
• Family history of heart disease

Heart attacks can strike without warning, but most are preventable through early management of these risks.

🧪 How We Diagnose a Heart Attack

At Z. Kounnis Cardiology Center, our emergency evaluation process is designed to be fast, accurate, and life-saving. We use:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal electrical activity
• Blood tests for cardiac enzymes (like troponin) that indicate heart muscle damage
• Coronary angiography to visualize blocked arteries
• Echocardiogram to assess heart function

Immediate diagnosis is followed by a carefully tailored treatment strategy to restore blood flow and limit damage.

🛠️ Treatment for Myocardial Infarction

Time is muscle — and every minute counts. Once diagnosed, heart attack treatment is initiated right away, often including:

1. Emergency Interventions

• Medications: such as blood thinners, clot-busting drugs, and pain relief
• Angioplasty with stent placement: to reopen blocked arteries
• Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG): in more complex or severe cases

2. Post-Attack Management

After stabilizing the patient, long-term care is crucial to prevent recurrence and support recovery:

• Medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and prevent clot formation
• Lifestyle changes: heart-healthy diet, exercise, quitting smoking, weight management
• Cardiac rehabilitation: supervised programs to help rebuild strength and confidence

Each recovery plan is personalized, and our team provides continuous support throughout your journey to healing.

❤️ Your Heart Deserves Urgent and Expert Care

At Z. Kounnis Cardiology Center, we combine rapid emergency response with advanced cardiology expertise to give heart attack patients the best chance at survival and full recovery.

If you or someone near you shows signs of a heart attack, don’t wait — seek medical attention immediately. And if you’re living with risk factors, take proactive steps now. Our clinic is here to help you protect your heart before, during, and after any cardiac event.

‍