With the rapid economic development and improvement in living standards in China, the incidence and mortality rates of coronary artery disease, particularly acute myocardial infarction (AMI), have been rising year by year. According to data released by the National Health Commission, approximately 1 million people in China suffer from an acute myocardial infarction annually, with one in every three patients succumbing to the condition.
November 20, 2024, marks the 11th "China Heart Attack Treatment Day." The number "1120" symbolizes two "120s." The first "120" indicates the importance of promptly dialing "120" when experiencing acute chest pain. The second "120" refers to the extent of providing treatment to patients diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction within the critical "120" minutes, also known as the golden window, to improve survival outcomes.
Dr. Shu Yue, Associate Director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at Hainan Chengmei Hospital, stated that acute myocardial infarction results from acute and sustained ischemia and hypoxia in the coronary arteries, leading to myocardial necrosis.
1 Identification of Typical Symptoms
Chest pain, radiating pain, nausea, vomiting, profuse sweating, difficulty breathing, or fainting could be signs of a heart attack.
2 Be Aware of Atypical Symptoms
Women, the elderly, and diabetic patients may experience atypical symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Treatment for myocardial infarction (MI) does not end with emergency interventions, such as stent placement. These measures constitute only half of the treatment process; the other half requires long-term medication and cardiac rehabilitation.
Six Key "Prescriptions" to Aid Cardiac Rehabilitation
Due to myocardial ischemia, MI patients often experience a decline in cardiac function, leading to reduced physical, occupational, and daily living abilities, along with psychological issues such as anxiety and depression. Cardiac rehabilitation involves comprehensive, holistic medical care aimed at improving the heart and overall body function impaired by cardiovascular diseases, preventing the recurrence of cardiovascular events, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life to help patients return to normal social life. Strengthening cardiac rehabilitation after an MI is essential:
Medication Prescription
The cornerstone of cardiac rehabilitation includes antiplatelet agents (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor), lipid-lowering drugs (such as atorvastatin, rosuvastatin), and, if necessary, medications for cardiac remodeling (such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs).
Nutritional Prescription
Focus on a balanced, low-calorie diet with diverse options. Avoid alcohol and limit foods high in cholesterol, salt, and fat. Instead, increase the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat protein.
Psychological Prescription
Post-MI patients may experience negative emotions, such as anxiety and depression. Psychological counseling or, if necessary, pharmacological intervention from a professional can help alleviate these issues.
Smoking Cessation Prescription
Assist patients in developing a smoking cessation plan, managing withdrawal symptoms, guiding the use of smoking cessation medications, monitoring the effectiveness and side effects of these medications, providing information on cessation drugs and self-help materials, and arranging follow-up appointments.
Exercise Prescription
The core of cardiac rehabilitation is exercise. Exercise promotes collateral circulation in the heart, improves cardiac function, prevents vascular restenosis, and enhances the quality of life for MI patients. This includes the type of exercise, duration, intensity, and frequency, which are tailored to the patients age, gender, and cardiopulmonary status through a systematic and individualized approach.
Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP)
EECP is a safe and effective non-invasive mechanical circulatory support method, often referred to as a "green bypass" or a "lying marathon." It works by improving endothelial function, reducing blood viscosity, accelerating blood flow, promoting collateral circulation in vital organs, enhancing microcirculation, inhibiting the progression of arteriosclerosis, and reducing the risk of thromboembolism.
Cardiac Rehabilitation Department
Recently, the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at Hainan Chengmei Hospital has officially opened, equipped with advanced facilities, including cardiopulmonary exercise testing equipment, six-minute walk tests, pneumatic EECP devices, body composition analyzers, power bicycles, and resistance training equipment. These devices allow for comprehensive monitoring of physiological parameters before, during, and after exercise, enabling precise assessment of cardiopulmonary function. Healthcare professionals analyze exercise data to identify issues and develop personalized pre-emptive care and post-rehabilitation solutions for cardiovascular disease patients.
Maintain Lipid Management
Ensure Vascular Patency
Adopt Scientific Rehabilitation Treatments
Regain the Vitality of Circulating Life
A healthy lifestyle is the primary defense for cardiovascular health. The human body is like a machine—when we consistently maintain healthy habits, our organs function in harmony, reducing the risk of "breakdowns." Dont let a heart attack become the end of lifes flow.
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