Heart attacks, also known as myocardial infarctions, are serious medical emergencies that occur when the blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, often by a blood clot. This blockage can cause damage or destruction to part of the heart muscle. For seniors, understanding the signs, risks, and preventive measures of heart attacks is crucial, especially for those providing elder care. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help seniors and caregivers stay informed and prepared.
What is Heart Attack?
A heart attack happens when an artery supplying blood to the heart muscle becomes blocked. This blockage is typically caused by a buildup of plaque (a mixture of fat, cholesterol, and other substances). When a plaque ruptures, a blood clot forms around it, which can impede or completely obstruct blood flow to the heart.
Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack early can be life-saving. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
Chest Pain or Discomfort : This may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. It can last for more than a few minutes or go away and come back.
Shortness of Breath : This can occur with or without chest discomfort and may feel like you can’t catch your breath.
Discomfort in Other Areas : This can occur with or without chest discomfort and may feel like you can’t catch your breath.
Cold Sweat : Breaking out in a cold sweat without any apparent reason.
Nausea or Lightheadedness : Feeling nauseous or lightheaded, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
Fatigue : Unusual or unexplained tiredness, which can sometimes be present for days or even weeks before the heart attack.
Risk Factors for Seniors
Several factors increase the risk of heart attacks, especially among seniors.
Chest Pain or Discomfort : This may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. It can last for more than a few minutes or go away and come back.
Shortness of Breath : This can occur with or without chest discomfort and may feel like you can’t catch your breath.
Discomfort in Other Areas : This can occur with or without chest discomfort and may feel like you can’t catch your breath.
Cold Sweat : Breaking out in a cold sweat without any apparent reason.
Nausea or Lightheadedness : Feeling nauseous or lightheaded, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
Fatigue : Unusual or unexplained tiredness, which can sometimes be present for days or even weeks before the heart attack.
Care Services
Comprehensive Care for a Joyful Living
- Weekly grocery/other items/medicines
- Weekly physical check-in
- Checking on regular medication/tests
- Exclusive SaaThi care coordinator
- Weekly 4 hours outing
- Once in a week cook from outside cooking
- Individual WhatsApp group with the senior
- Travel planning help
- Daily check-in via video call
- Birthday and Anniversary celebrations
- Assistance in any other activities on chargeable basis
- Picnics and outstation trips