Ischaemic heart disease

Ischaemic heart disease is a disease characterized by reduced blood supply to the heart. It is the most common cause of death in most western countries.

Treatment of a heart attack.

The option required depends on the situation.

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• Specialised coronary care (the sooner the better); most deaths are due to sudden onset arrhythmias - time is crucial to survival.
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (breathing support, pulse and BP monitoring & possible chest compressions).
• A defibrillator can stop cardiac arrhythmias.
• An artificial pacemaker can speed up cardiac bradyarrhythmias.
• Drugs such as adrenaline can increase heart rate and strength of contractions, although also promote tachyarrhythmias.
• Thrombolytic agents can clear away compounding blood clots.
• Anticoagulation can impede additional blood clots.
• Inotropic drugs will raise blood pressure.
• Unblock arteries with angioplasty ("balloon angioplasty with or without stents") or surgery.