Consequences of a heart attack
The consequences of a heart attack are divided into acute and long-term consequences. Acute consequences: The first 48 hours after a heart attack are considered extremely critical. During this period, many patients experience after-effects such as cardiac arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, accelerated heartbeat and acute cardiac insufficiency (when the heart cannot pump enough blood through the body).
Slightly less than half of all heart attack patients die during this period. Good rehabilitation after a heart attack is divided into three phases: Phase 1: mobilization of the patient in hospital as quickly as possible Phase 2: well-organized rehabilitation, either inpatient or outpatient Phase 3: lifelong aftercare Overall, the chances of recovery are better if patients show good compliance with the treatment plan and actively do something for their health.
- Acute consequences: The first 48 hours after a heart attack are considered extremely critical. During this period, many patients experience after-effects such as cardiac arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, accelerated heartbeat and acute cardiac insufficiency (when the heart cannot pump enough blood through the body). Slightly less than half of all heart attack patients die during this period.
- Long-term consequences: The long-term consequences of a heart attack range from depression to chronic myocardial insufficiency to aneurysms to sudden cardiac death.
- Phase 1: Mobilization of the patient in the hospital as quickly as possible
- Phase 2 : a well-organized rehabilitation, either inpatient or outpatient
- Phase 3: a lifelong aftercare
Prevent heart attack
In order to prevent a heart attack from the outset there are different measures for prevention. These include a normal body weight, abstaining from nicotine and alcohol and regular physical training. If hypertension is present, a good attitude with blood pressure-lowering medication is important, as well as a good therapy and diet for existing diabetes, and the reduction of psychological stress factors. Regular check-ups with your doctor can also help in the worst case to take direct countermeasures to prevent a heart attack.
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