You are a heart patient and have often known how you get unrest and pain in the chest every time you climb a fleet of steps. You stop, take your prescribed medicines and get relief. Little do you know why this is occurring and how dangerous is the situation. Since you get the symptoms often, you would like to see a doctor.
Acute coronary syndrome refers to the clinical condition characterized by symptoms of a heart attack or a probability of one. These symptoms are due to reduced blood flow in the vessels that supply the heart, and are an indication of coronary artery disease.
Acute coronary syndrome is caused by blockage in one or more vessels that supply the heart. The blockage is caused by fatty deposits called plaques. These occur due to the process of atherosclerosis where chemically modified fats are deposited in the lumen along the walls of the vessels and narrow the lumen which in turn causes reduced blood flow in the vessels. Besides atherosclerosis, other less common causes of acute coronary syndrome include enlargement of the chambers of the heart, blockage of the vessels by clots, inflammation and swelling of the vessels, tearing away of walls of the vessels, and carbon monoxide poisoning and lung diseases that can lead to a deficiency of oxygen. Advanced age, increased blood pressure, increased sugar or fat in blood, smoking, and increased occupational stress can increase the risk for acute coronary syndrome.
The commonest symptom of an acute coronary syndrome is chest pain. The pain may be felt like a pressure, tightness, or sensation of burning. This typical pain is called angina pain.
Shortness of breath, feeling of vomiting, and a sudden episode of heavy cold sweating are the other coronary artery disease symptoms.
Acute coronary syndrome can have other presentations like abdominal pain, cold clammy skin, light-headedness, dizziness, restlessness, unusual fatigue, heartburn, and fainting. The symptoms differ according to age and presence of underlying medical conditions like diabetes.
Acute coronary disease treatment depends upon the severity of symptoms and extent of blockage.
Acute coronary syndrome can be prevented by changing lifestyle, taking proper medication, and observing precautions.
Acute Coronary Syndrome should never be ignored as being trivial even if the symptoms are not severe. Regular treatment is a must to prevent any further episodes. Diet control, lifestyle changes, and exercise have immense benefits.
