Heart Attack

A heart attack can occur anytime - at work, while you are resting or in the middle of a strenuous workout. Heart attacks occur very suddenly, but the conditions leading up to an attack build up over many years. A heart attack occurs when blood flow is blocked due to build-up of fat, cholesterol and other substances which form plaque in the arteries. This can cause harm to the heart muscles and can prove to be fatal if not treated correctly and promptly. In order to ensure that the damage to the organs is minimum, the door to balloon time should be 90 minutes or less. This refers to the ​​​​amount​​ of time between a heart attack patient’s arrival at the hospital to the time they receive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), such as angioplasty.

When to seek expert advise

​If you or anyone near you is experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms, immediately call for help and go to the hospital. The Department of Cardiology at The Aga Khan University Hospital, are home to highly trained doctors that will give you the attention and care you need.   

It is important to contact a physician immediately to figure out the exact cause, rather than making an appointment as an outpatient. Your physician can help you avoid pain and unnecessary complications. It is advisable not to drive yourself to the hospital. If you need an ambulance call The Aga Khan University Hospital’s Department of Emergency Medicine​.​

Imagery