Heart attack and recovery
A heart attack happens when a coronary artery suddenly becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot on top of a plaque. Emergency treatment opens the artery as quickly as possible. Afterwards, the focus is on recovery, protecting the heart muscle and lowering the chance of a further event.
1What you might notice
- Chest pain, pressure or heaviness lasting more than 10 minutes
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck or back
- Sweating, nausea or breathlessness with chest discomfort
- After a heart attack: tiredness, low mood or worry are common and worth discussing
If you have symptoms of a heart attack, call 000 immediately. Do not drive yourself to hospital.
2Tests that help
- Echocardiogram
Measures how well the heart muscle is pumping after the event.
- Blood tests
Cholesterol, sugar and kidney function guide long-term treatment.
- Holter monitor
Checks for rhythm disturbances during recovery when needed.
3Treatment options
- Coronary stenting (PCI)
Usually performed in hospital at the time of the heart attack, sometimes with staged treatment of other narrowings later.
- Medicines
Blood thinners, cholesterol, blood pressure and heart-protective medicines, reviewed over time.
- Cardiac rehabilitation
A structured exercise and education program that supports a safe return to normal life.
Seeing Dr Ramzy about this
Ask your GP for a referral to Dr John Ramzy, then request an appointment at Heidelberg, Knox or by telehealth. All new referrals are offered an appointment within two weeks, usually sooner.