Learn about your life expectancy after a heart attack, depending on your age.
Discover healthy lifestyle habits to implement post-attack, too.
First, what causes a heart attack?
A heart attack happens when there isnt enough blood flow to the heart muscle, per theCleveland Clinic.
Without proper blood flow and oxygen, the heart muscle begins to die, causing a heart attack.
This medical emergency can result in permanent heart damage if not treated properly and in time.
heart failure and heart transplant cardiologist at theVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute
Over time, plaque buildup will block blood flow to your heart and result in a heart attack.
When to go to the ER
Signs of a heart attack can vary from person to person.
While some symptoms are mild (or even non-existent), others can be severe, per theMayo Clinic.
They can treat any other underlying causes of your symptoms.
For the average patient this translates to an extra 7.5 event-free years of life, adds Dr. Bart.
Post-heart attack lifespan also depends on how old a person is when they have a heart attack.
Heart attack recovery looks different for everyone.
And because everyones heart and body is different, recovery time can vary, too.
Some peoples hearts never fully heal from a heart attack.
heart failure and heart transplant cardiologist at theVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute
Others, with intervention and proper medications, may maintain their myocardial function.
Recovery can take anywhere between two weeks to more than three months, per Dr. Bart.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
As for exercise, theCDCrecommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
If youre looking to quit smoking, reach out to your doctor for support.
They can recommend online or in-person smoking cessation programs and other resources.
Each program will likely look slightly different, depending on the hospital or medical center you get care from.
Your doctor can help you create short-term and long-term health goals to meet.
And if youre unsure about anything or have concerns, let your doctor know.
They are there to help, says Dr. Bart.
If you have a first-degree relative (e.g.
Knowing this now is empowering because it means you could get early screening and treatment if necessary.
The most important step is to get help as soon as you see signs of a heart attack.
FAQ
What is your life expectancy after having stents put in?
Your life expectancy after getting a stent varies from person to person, says Dr. Saucier.
Life expectancy will also depend on the degree of damage brought on by the heart attack or cardiac event.
Can I strengthen my heart after a heart attack?
With proper treatment, its possible to strengthen your heart after a heart attack, says Dr. Bart.
The correct heart medications have a powerful role in remodeling your heart, she adds.
Exercise will also help strengthen your heart long term.
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