CLASPRIN
ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME
Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is a term used to describe a group of conditions resulting from acute myocardial ischemia (insufficient blood flow to heart muscle), and ranging from unstable angina (increasing, unpredictable chest pain) to myocardial infarction (heart attack). The conditions are related to varying degrees of narrowing or blockage of single or multiple coronary arteries that provide blood, oxygen and nutrients to the heart. This life threatening disorder is a major cause of emergency medical care and hospitalization.
SYMPTOMS
- Chest pain - uncomfortable pressure, squeezing or fullness
- Upper body discomfort - pain or discomfort in both the arms, the back, neck, jaw or abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Other symptoms include sweating, nausea, and 'light headedness'
DIAGNOSIS & POSSIBLE TREATMENTS
Initial assessment includes a complete medical history, physical examination, an electrocardiogram (ECG) test to evaluate the electrical activity of the heart, and blood tests to evaluate the presence of chemicals resulting from cardiac cell injury. Hospitalization may be necessary. Standard treatments for coronary artery blockage may include placement of stents (mesh tubes) within narrowed blood vessels or heart surgery, for bypass grafting of blocked vessels.
WAYS TO REDUCE RISK OF CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE
- Do not smoke
- Control your blood pressure
- Exercise on a regular basis
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Maintain a reasonable body weight
- Ask your doctor about taking a low dose of aspirin each day
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