What is a silent heart attack or silent MI?
A heart attack or myocardial infarction is called “silent” when no symptoms are recalled by the patient. Heart attack typically goes unrecognized for months or even years. The patient is found to have a heart attack retrospectively by his doctor. The doctor diagnoses a silent heart attack with the help of changes in certain tests like ECG and 2d echo. Most often, a silent heart attack is diagnosed
incidentally during a routine health checkup. These days most people are undergoing ECG and 2d echo tests as part of a routine checkup.
ECG and 2d echo establish the diagnosis of silent heart attack who otherwise does not have a past history of a heart attack.
What is the incidence of a silent heart attack?
It is not uncommon to have a silent heart attack (myocardial infarction) as more and more cardiac tests are being performed very often these days. It is estimated that around 20 to 40 percent of heart attacks are silent.
Who is more prone to silent heart attack?
several factors are associated with an increased likelihood of silent heart attack (silent MI).
These people are more likely to have a silent heart attack.
1. Older age
2. Female gender
3. High Blood pressure
4. Diabetes
5. Kidney disease
What are the reasons for the lack of symptoms in a silent heart attack?
People with silent heart attacks might have an abnormal pain-sensing ability due to damaged nerves.
How are silent heart attacks managed?
These people are at increased risk of future heart attack, brain stroke, kidney diseases, and death. Hence, these patients should follow lifestyle modifications, eat a heart-healthy diet and take heart-protective medications.
How to proceed further with silent heart attacks?
These patients may need a Ct coronary angiogram or conventional angiogram for further management.
What precautions should a silent heart attack patient take?
The patient with a silent heart attack should start heart-healthy eating, reducing body weight, regular exercise, and cessation of smoking. They should also receive medicine to correct high blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol, and correct high sugars. Aspirin is to be taken indefinitely provided there is no contraindication. Drugs like beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors are also often needed. Drugs to reduce bad cholesterol are also recommended in such patients.
Where will I consult for silent heart attack in Hyderabad?
Dr. Malleswara Rao is a heart specialist with vast experience in diagnosing and treating heart attacks in Hyderabad
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