Heart Attack Treatment

Heart Attack Treatment

Heart Attack Treatment & Options

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a heart attack, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

It is important to get medical attention right away if you have a heart attack. The experts at Emory Healthcare can help.

Your treatment depends on the type and severity of your heart attack - and there are many types of treatment. Some types of treatment include the following.

Surgery and Other Procedures for Heart Attack

Your doctor may recommend a medical procedure or surgery.

Some of the most common procedures for heart attacks include:

  • Atherectomy:  A catheter with a blade attached to the tip scrapes away plaque on the arteries.
  • Balloon angioplasty: Your surgeon inserts and inflates a tiny balloon in the artery to improve blood flow.
  • Coronary bypass: Re-routes blood flow in the heart around your blocked artery     
  • Stent placement: Your surgeon opens your artery by inserting a small tube.
After your initial hospital stay, we will work with you to become more heart healthy.

After a Heart Attack

Cardiac Rehabilitation

If you have a heart attack, you typically need to participate in cardiac rehabilitation. This a personalized exercise and lifestyle education program to improve your heart health. Other treatment options include:

Lifestyle changes

Committing to healthy habits can help reduce your risk of another heart attack. They habits include:

  • Eliminate tobacco
  • Exercise regularly
  • Follow a heart-healthy diet
  • Get regular medical check-ups
  • Limit alcohol
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Manage stress

Medications

A variety of medicines can treat a heart attack. Your doctor will prescribe what is best for you. Some medicines given for a heart attack include:

  • ACE inhibitors
  • Aspirin or antiplatelet medicines
  • Beta-blockers
  • Blood thinners
  • Nitroglycerin Statins
  • Thrombolytics
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart decreases or stops. It is a common but serious condition that requires immediate attention and treatment.

We’re Here for You

Did you know that someone has a heart attack every 34 seconds in the U.S.?

The doctors and specialists at Emory Heart & Vascular have the expertise to help. We use the best of proven heart care strategies. And we are pioneers in developing new treatments.

Your care team will create a treatment plan just for you so you can get back on track.

Find an Emory Doctor

Emory Healthcare doctors provide specialized treatment and research the latest advancements.

View Emory Physician Profiles

Explore our Network

To expand your options, explore our network of providers throughout Atlanta and the surrounding counties.

 

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