Wellness Tips from Josef Schenker, MD
Welcome to our Wellness Tips blog series, brought to you by Dr. Josef Schenker, the Medical Director at Centers Urgent Care. In this series, Dr. Schenker shares his extensive knowledge and experience in internal medicine and emergency medical services, including how to avoid a heart attack, to help you lead a healthier life.
Dr. Schenker will cover a range of crucial health topics, offering expert advice on how to avoid common ailments. With a focus on prevention and practical tips, each blog post is designed to empower you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
How to Avoid a Heart Attack
The United States sees approximately 805,000 heart attacks annually, with 605,000 of these being first-time occurrences. These statistics underscore the widespread impact of cardiovascular disease and emphasize the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent heart attacks. By focusing on lifestyle choices, managing risk factors, and following expert guidance, individuals can significantly reduce their chances of experiencing this serious health event.
Let’s delve into practical steps and expert advice from Josef Schenker, MD on how to avoid heart attacks while promoting heart health and overall well-being.
Dr. Josef Schenker Explains the Symptoms of Heart Attack
The symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person, and they can range from mild to severe. According to Dr. Josef Schenker, it’s crucial to acknowledge that symptoms can vary widely among individuals, and some may exhibit atypical presentations.
Here are the common symptoms of a heart attack:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: This is the most common symptom. It often feels like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or fullness in the center or left side of the chest. The pain may come and go or persist.
- Pain or Discomfort in Other Upper Body Areas: The discomfort may radiate to one or both arms (commonly the left arm), the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Some people may feel it in these areas without chest pain.
- Shortness of Breath: This can occur with or without chest discomfort. It may be sudden and severe or develop gradually.
- Cold Sweat: You may suddenly break out in a cold sweat, which is often described as feeling clammy or sweaty without exertion.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Some people may experience nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain.
- Light-headedness or Dizziness: Feeling dizzy, light-headed, or unusually fatigued can occur, especially in combination with other symptoms.
- Unexplained Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or fatigued, especially if it’s not due to exertion, can be a symptom of a heart attack.
It’s important to emphasize that not all of these symptoms may be present during a heart attack. Some people, especially women, older adults, and those with diabetes, may experience subtler symptoms or different ones altogether.
If you suspect you or someone else is having a heart attack, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical help immediately. Call emergency services (911 in the US) without delay. Prompt treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
What is a Silent Heart Attack?
A silent heart attack, as explained by Dr. Josef Schenker, is a heart attack that occurs without the typical symptoms like chest pain or discomfort. It’s also known as a silent myocardial infarction (MI) or asymptomatic MI. Silent heart attacks can be dangerous because they may go unrecognized and untreated, leading to delayed medical intervention and potentially more extensive damage to the heart muscle. Despite the absence of obvious symptoms, a silent heart attack can still cause permanent damage to the heart and increase the risk of future heart problems.
Risk factors for silent heart attacks are similar to those for typical heart attacks and include conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Individuals who have had a previous heart attack or have a family history of heart disease are also at higher risk.
Due to the lack of obvious symptoms, silent heart attacks are often diagnosed through routine medical tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), blood tests to measure cardiac enzymes, or imaging tests like an echocardiogram or cardiac MRI.
If you have risk factors for heart disease or suspect you may have had a silent heart attack, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional. According to Josef Schenker, MD, preventing silent heart attacks involves proactive steps such as regular health check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health. Regular check-ups and monitoring of heart health can help detect silent heart attacks early and prevent complications through appropriate medical management and lifestyle changes.
You can visit an urgent care facility like Centers Urgent Care for thorough and convenient heart health checkups. Our expert team offers comprehensive screenings, including EKGs and lipid panels, to detect and manage heart disease risk factors early.
Can You Stop a Heart Attack?
No, according to Dr. Josef Schenker and medical consensus, you cannot stop a heart attack once it has begun. A heart attack occurs due to a blockage in a coronary artery, disrupting blood flow to part of the heart muscle. This lack of oxygen-rich blood causes damage to the heart tissue. However, immediate medical intervention is crucial in minimizing the extent of damage and improving outcomes.
Here’s how medical intervention typically works:
- Emergency Response: Upon recognizing symptoms of a heart attack, it’s crucial to call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately. Emergency medical responders can provide initial care and transport the person to a hospital quickly.
- Medical Treatment: In the hospital, healthcare professionals will immediately assess the patient’s condition. They will likely administer medications, such as aspirin to reduce blood clotting, and possibly nitroglycerin to improve blood flow to the heart.
- Reperfusion Therapy: If the heart attack is due to a blockage in a coronary artery, treatments like thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting drugs) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI, also known as angioplasty with stenting) may be performed to restore blood flow to the heart muscle. This helps limit the amount of damage to the heart tissue and improve outcomes.
- Monitoring and Supportive Care: The patient will be closely monitored in a cardiac care unit or intensive care unit to manage complications and provide supportive care.
- Rehabilitation and Recovery: After treatment, cardiac rehabilitation programs can help improve recovery and reduce the risk of future heart problems through lifestyle changes, exercise, and education.
While you cannot stop a heart attack once it has begun, timely medical intervention can save lives and minimize the long-term impact on heart function. Early recognition of symptoms and rapid access to medical care are key to improving outcomes in the event of a heart attack.
How Long Does a Heart Attack Last?
The duration of a heart attack can vary from a few minutes to several hours. It depends on different factors such as the individual’s overall health, the severity of the heart attack, and how quickly medical treatment is received.
Here’s a general overview:
- Onset and Duration of Symptoms: A heart attack usually starts with a blockage in a coronary artery, reducing blood flow to a section of the heart muscle. Initial signs like sudden chest pain or discomfort can vary in severity and may persist for several minutes or more.
- Progression: Without prompt medical intervention, a heart attack can lead to ongoing damage to the heart muscle. The longer blood flow is restricted, the more extensive the damage can be.
- Treatment Impact: Timely medical treatment is crucial in minimizing the damage caused by a heart attack. With prompt intervention, such as administering medications to dissolve clots or performing procedures like angioplasty to restore blood flow, the duration of the heart attack’s impact on the heart muscle can be minimized.
- Recovery and Healing: After treatment, the heart attack itself may no longer be actively causing damage once blood flow to the heart muscle is restored. However, the recovery process varies among individuals and depends on the extent of damage and overall health. Recovery can take weeks to months, during which the heart muscle heals and strengthens.
In summary, the duration of a heart attack itself—from the onset of symptoms to treatment and recovery—can vary. Prompt recognition of symptoms and immediate medical attention are critical in minimizing damage and improving outcomes. If you suspect a heart attack, it is essential to seek emergency medical help immediately by calling emergency services (911 in the US) without delay.
Josef Schenker, MD, Explains Explains How to Avoid Heart Attack
1. Quit Smoking
Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease. However, quitting smoking can substantially decrease your likelihood of experiencing a heart attack.2. Healthy Diet
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, salt, and sugar.3. Regular Exercise
Strive to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise. Regular physical activity supports weight management, reduces blood pressure, and enhances cholesterol levels, promoting overall health.4. Manage Weight
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart disease. Maintain a healthy weight through diet and regular physical activity.5. Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) strains the heart and arteries. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s recommendations for management.6. Manage Cholesterol Levels
High cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Control cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medications if prescribed.7. Manage Diabetes
If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves over time, increasing heart disease risk.8. Limit Alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption can elevate blood pressure and contribute to obesity. If you choose to drink, it’s advisable to limit intake to moderate levels— up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.9. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or other relaxing hobbies.10. Regular Health Check-ups
Schedule regular visits with your healthcare provider for preventive care. Discuss your heart disease risk factors and any concerns you have about your heart health. Following these tips can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing a heart attack. Dr. Josef Schenker stresses the importance of lifestyle changes and proactive management of risk factors to promote heart health and overall well-being.
How to Avoid Heart Attack While Sleeping
Heart attacks are unpredictable events that can strike at any time, whether day or night. However, what makes them particularly concerning is the possibility of silent heart attacks occurring during sleep. Silent heart attacks, unlike their more symptomatic counterparts, may manifest with subtle or no warning signs such as chest pain or discomfort.
Dr. Josef Schenker underscores the importance of vigilance in managing cardiovascular health. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of heart attack while sleeping:
1. Sleep Position
Sleeping on your back may increase the risk of sleep apnea and snoring, which are associated with cardiovascular problems. Sleeping on your side may be preferable for heart health, especially the left side, as it can improve circulation and reduce pressure on the heart.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce the risk of heart attack during sleep.
3. Manage Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by interruptions or shallow breathing during sleep, which can result in inadequate oxygen levels and heightened stress on the heart. If you notice symptoms like loud snoring, gasping for air at night, or daytime fatigue, it’s crucial to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare provider.
4. Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s recommendations for management, including medications if prescribed.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease. Practice relaxation techniques before bed, such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga, to promote better sleep and reduce stress levels.
6. Avoid Heavy Meals and Alcohol Before Bed
Large, heavy meals and excessive alcohol consumption before bedtime can affect digestion, disrupt sleep patterns, and potentially impact heart health. Opt for lighter meals and limit alcohol intake in the hours leading up to sleep.
7. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Ensure your bedroom is conducive to restful sleep. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet, and use comfortable bedding and pillows to support quality sleep.
8. Address Underlying Health Conditions
If you have diabetes, high cholesterol, or other chronic conditions, managing them effectively can reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks during sleep.
9. Regular Physical Activity
Engaging in regular exercise during the day can improve overall cardiovascular health and promote better sleep quality at night.
10. Seek Medical Advice
If you have concerns about your heart health or sleep patterns, consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance based on your individual health profile.
By taking proactive steps to promote heart health and adopting healthy sleep habits, you can reduce the risk of experiencing a heart attack while sleeping.
What to Do if Someone is Having a Heart Attack
If you find yourself in a situation where someone appears to be experiencing a heart attack, taking immediate action can be crucial in potentially saving their life. Recognizing the signs and knowing what steps to take can make a significant difference. Here’s what to do:
- Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services (911 in the US) immediately to get professional medical help on the way. Time is critical in treating a heart attack.
- Stay with the Person: Stay calm and reassure the person. Have them sit or lie down comfortably, ideally in a position that eases their breathing and minimizes strain on their heart.
- Offer Aspirin (if not allergic): If the person is conscious and not allergic to aspirin, give them a regular, non-coated aspirin to chew and swallow. This can help thin the blood and reduce the severity of the heart attack.
- Monitor Vital Signs: Keep an eye on the person’s condition. Be prepared to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) if they become unconscious and stop breathing normally.
- Do Not Delay: Even if the person’s symptoms improve or they seem to be feeling better, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. It’s essential for them to receive professional evaluation and treatment to prevent further complications.
- Provide Information to Emergency Responders: When medical help arrives, provide details about the person’s symptoms, any actions taken, and their medical history. This information assists paramedics and doctors in delivering appropriate care promptly.
Taking immediate action and seeking professional medical assistance are critical steps in managing this life-threatening situation to ensure the best possible outcome for someone experiencing a heart attack. Acting promptly and effectively can significantly improve survival chances and minimize heart muscle damage.
Josef Schenker, MD, Answers Frequently Asked Questions:
What percentage of heart attacks are fatal?
Approximately 12% of individuals experiencing a heart attack do not survive it. The most prevalent form of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which involves blockages in the arteries supplying blood to the heart.
Cardiac arrest vs. Heart attack: what’s the difference?
Cardiac arrest is more immediately serious than a heart attack. It involves a sudden loss of heart function due to an electrical problem, often leading to sudden death if not promptly treated with CPR and defibrillation. A heart attack, while serious, involves a blockage in a coronary artery and can lead to long-term heart damage or death if not treated promptly.
How to avoid heart attack and stroke?
To avoid heart attacks and strokes, maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet low in saturated fats and sugars, manage stress, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and seek medical advice for personalized risk management.
How to avoid heart attack at young age?
To avoid a heart attack at a young age, prioritize these steps: maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet low in saturated fats and sugars, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, limit alcohol intake, manage stress effectively, monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and seek medical advice for any concerns or family history of heart disease. Early prevention is key to long-term heart health.
What is the difference between chest pain and heart pain?
Chest pain is a general term for discomfort in the chest area, while heart pain (angina) specifically indicates inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle. Angina is typically characterized by pressure or tightness and is a symptom of heart disease requiring medical attention.
Can I go to urgent care for chest pain?
Urgent care centers can provide initial evaluation and stabilization for heart-related conditions, although they may not offer full cardiac services like a hospital or specialized cardiac clinic.
Here’s how urgent care facilities typically help:
- Initial Assessment: Urgent care clinics can evaluate symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, and dizziness. They will assess vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.
- Diagnostic Testing: They can perform basic diagnostic tests such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) to check for abnormal heart rhythms or signs of a heart attack.
- Medication: Urgent care providers can administer certain medications to stabilize conditions like high blood pressure or arrhythmias temporarily.
- Referral: If the urgent care facility determines that further specialized care is needed, they can arrange for immediate transfer to a hospital or refer the patient to a cardiologist for more advanced evaluation and treatment.
- Management of Non-Critical Cases: For less severe cases, urgent care can provide guidance on lifestyle changes, medications, or follow-up care with a primary care physician or cardiologist.
However, for severe or life-threatening heart conditions such as a heart attack, unstable angina, or acute heart failure, it’s crucial to call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately, as these conditions require urgent treatment in a hospital setting where specialized cardiac interventions and monitoring are available.
Focus on Preventative Care: Prioritize Your Heart Health
About Josef Schenker, MD:
Dr. Josef Schenker, a board-certified expert in internal medicine and emergency medical services, brings extensive experience and compassion to his role as Medical Director and Partner at Centers Urgent Care. With leadership in SeniorCare Emergency Medical Services and as an Attending Physician at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Dr. Schenker oversees critical care and treatment protocols across varied medical needs. His dedication extends to chairing NYC REMAC, ensuring adherence to state standards in emergency medical procedures. At Centers Urgent Care, Dr. Schenker's expertise ensures prompt, high-quality emergency care for patients of all ages, supported by state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated pediatric suite.
