The critical 60 minutes after a heart attack: Why is the "Golden Hour" important?
According to medical data, more than half of heart attack patients die before reaching the hospital. Every hour of delay further damages the heart muscle. During the first two hours of a heart attack, heart rhythm is closely monitored to prevent fatal arrhythmias, and if necessary, intervention is performed in the intensive care unit with a defibrillator or temporary pacemaker. Angioplasty, which is performed to open a blocked artery in the heart, stands out as the most effective method for restoring circulation. The blockage, identified through a catheter, is dilated with a balloon, and a stent is placed to maintain patency. If rapid access to a cath lab is not available, intravenous thrombolytic drugs (thrombolytic therapy) are administered as a temporary solution. However, angioplasty must be performed within 6 to 24 hours after this approach. Delaying intervention beyond 48 hours significantly reduces its effectiveness.
Heart attack symptoms can sometimes be confused with indigestion or acid reflux. However, experts say the following warning signs should be taken seriously: Pressure, tightness, or severe pain in the chest; Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back; Shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness; Nausea, anxiety, and fear of dying; Persistent discomfort despite rest; If you experience even one of these symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider who provides cardiac care immediately. According to experts, every 30-minute delay after Golden Hour causes a measurable loss of heart function.
Cardiology experts emphasize that prompt treatment can prevent permanent damage to the heart muscle.
In cases treated within the Golden Hour, patients often recover without permanent damage. However, if treatment is delayed, the risk of heart failure, serious arrhythmias, and sudden death increases significantly.
Experts agree that heart attack awareness, especially among younger people, needs to be increased. This crucial one-hour lifesaver can save more lives thanks to informed individuals. This article is written for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. ntv.com.tr is not responsible for any self-diagnosis based on the content of this article. If you have any concerns about your health, consult your doctor.
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