Chest pain that won’t go away? It could be a heart attack
Kwun Ju-seung, professor of cardiology / Courtesy of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital
When it comes to surviving a heart attack, speed and action are everything. Two immediate responses — calling emergency services (119) and administering chest compressions — can mean the difference between life and death.
A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when coronary arteries narrow due to plaque buildup, and the plaque ruptures to form a blood clot, completely blocking the artery. The primary cause is atherosclerosis, which can result from high cholesterol, smoking, hypertension, obesity, diabetes and genetic factors.
Heart attacks are often confused with angina, another type of ischemic heart disease. Angina causes temporary chest pain during physical exertion that eases with rest. However, a heart attack begins with the immediate death of heart muscle cells and requires urgent treatment.
The hallmark symptom of a heart attack is a crushing or squeezing pain in the center of the chest. If the pain lasts longer than 30 minutes or spreads to the arms, neck, jaw or abdomen, it’s a red flag.
The critical window to minimize damage is within about three hours of the first symptoms. This includes the time required for reperfusion therapy after arriving at a hospital. Ideally, patients should reach the hospital within two hours of symptom onset to increase their chances of recovery.
Because atherosclerosis is the root cause of heart attacks, prevention through lifestyle changes is essential. Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol, quitting smoking, maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly can reduce risk.
Effective exercises include swimming, cycling, hiking and running — activities that moderately stress the heart. Doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of such activity, three to four times a week. Light walking or simple stretching may not provide enough cardiovascular benefit.
Lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient for those with genetic risk or age-related factors, so medication prescribed by a healthcare provider may be necessary. Rather than relying on specific “superfoods,” a balanced and varied diet is advised. Extreme or scientifically untested diets can lead to side effects, including liver inflammation.
In the event of a suspected heart attack, immediate action is critical. Call 119 without delay and seek emergency medical services. If the patient loses consciousness, gently shake them and check for normal breathing. If breathing has stopped, initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
To perform CPR, interlock both hands and place them on the lower half of the breastbone. Push down firmly and quickly at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, pressing at least 6 centimeters deep. Rescue breaths can be skipped — chest compressions alone can save lives.
If an automated external defibrillator is available, use it right away and follow the voice instructions. CPR can be performed by anyone, not just medical professionals, and immediate chest compressions along with a 119 call can significantly increase a cardiac arrest patient’s survival chances.
Even after surviving a heart attack, ongoing management is essential. The risk of recurrence is high and complications such as heart failure can arise. Patients must adopt long-term lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking, reducing salt intake, controlling weight and exercising regularly. Adhering to prescribed medication regimens is also critical.
Participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program can aid recovery and prevent relapse. These programs help restore heart function while providing psychological support and rebuilding confidence. Ultimately, life after a heart attack depends on how well one manages it.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.