How is myocardial infarction treated?

The patient must immediately refer to a physician if the patient suffers from:

  1. Chest pains
  2. Fatigue
  3. Shortness of breath, especially if in conjunction with perspiration
  4. Vertigo
  5. Palpitations

Treatment

Pre-hospital treatment is very important, due to its crucial involvement in preserving and potentially saving the patient’s life.
Aiding and transporting the patient to the hospital immediately (within the first 30 minutes) hold primary importance in saving the patient’s life.

  1. Treatment with anti-coagulants, such as aspirin, 162-325 mg, patient must chew the tablet in their mouths, (for faster absorption of the medicine in the body).
  2. Managing the pain using analgesics, morphine, but if in domestic conditions analgine.
  3. Oxygen therapy.
  4. The usage of nitrates as vasodilators ameliorates coronary perfusion, nitroglycerine prescribed for sublingual intake.
  5. The usage of fibrinolysis preparations (streptokinase, alteplase, reteplase, tenecteplase).
  6. Beta blockers.
  7. Inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin system.

Revascularization Method: Treatment via Percutaneous Secondary Angioplasty

This is highly recommended in the first 2-6 hours, greatest benefits achieved within the first 24 hrs. No more than 48 hours must pass.

Angioplasty could also be performed at a later time, if the patient does not exhibit any pain. The usage of this treatment (invasive methods, such as revascularization methods) have significantly lowered the global mortality percentage.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Jan 2018
Medical Author: Dr. med. Diana Hysi