Failure to Diagnose Heart Attack

When an individual has a heart episode seconds can be the difference between terrible consequences and a normal / full life. Failure to Diagnose Heart Attack can lead to serious after effects for the patient. The reason this delay in diagnosis is important is because the tissue of the heart needs a constant blood supply and a heart episode often cuts this blood supply due to a blockage in an artery which provides the supply. When the muscle fibers of the heart go without blood flow (oxygen) the tissue can be permanently damaged.

Symptoms of heart attack

Chest pain is a common symptom. (not necessary)
Can’t catch breath
Weakness
Lightheaded
Cold Sweats
Fatigue
Stomach issues or pain
Radiating pain
Tightness in chest

Heart Attack Diagnosis

When a heart attack is suspected there are often diagnostic tests that are run to determine if a heart event has occurred. Not running these tests when symptoms are present may be a sign if a failure to diagnose a heart attack. These tests include:

• looking for any risk factors
• checking medication history
• physically examining the patient
• Electrokardiogram testing to watch the electrical impulses of the heart;
• Blood tests to look for chemicals that are created when an event has occurred.

Why Doctors Fail to Diagnose Heart Attack

Any doctor is capable of missing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. It takes the diligence we require of our medical professionals to insure that this happens as little as possible in our society.