EKG Machines: Effective Before and After a Heart Attack
As most people are already aware, the leading cause of death is a heart attack. Also known as a myocardial infarction, a heart attack occurs when the circulation of blood through the heart is interrupted by a blockage in one of the coronary arteries. While most fatal heart attacks occur in people with several risk factors for heart disease, there are many preventative measures that can be taken to prevent them. Regular physical exams, including a stress test on an EKG machine, are required in order to diagnose and treat heart disease.
The Versatility of EKG Machines
However, while most patients think EKG machines are used for preventative diagnostics only, they also play an important role in post-heart attack care. For example, it is possible to have a heart attack without even realizing it. ECG waves will be pick up signs of a previous attack and help prevent a more severe myocardial infarction down the road. EKG machines can also be used to assess the damage from a heart attack by measuring the strength and duration of the heart’s electrical signals and the rate at which the heart is pumping blood through the body.
Risk Factors for Heart Attacks
With regular medical testing and a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to prevent heart disease – even in people whose family members have all suffered from heart problems. Patients should be aware of any pain in the chest, neck or left arm, as well as other symptoms like shortness of breath or nausea that occurs at the same time. The
