In a poignant tale shared with Dr. Vikatan, a woman grappling with the tragic loss of her friend to a heart attack during childbirth seeks answers as she embarks on her second pregnancy. Dr. Guruprasad Sogunuru, a cardiologist in Chennai, sheds light on the uncommon yet critical issue of heart attacks during pregnancy, known as 'Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD).'
This condition involves a tear in the inner layer of the coronary artery, disrupting blood supply to the heart and resulting in a heart attack. While conventional risk factors like diabetes, blood pressure, and high cholesterol are widely known, Dr. Sogunuru emphasizes the additional risk that pregnant women face due to hormonal changes, especially those with high blood pressure or weakened connective tissues.
Exploring the layers of the heart – inner, middle, and external – the doctor explains that SCAD occurs when the inner layer tears, posing a significant threat. However, he assures that such instances are rare and not a widespread concern for all pregnant women.
Acknowledging the anxiety stemming from her friend's tragic experience, Dr. Sogunuru offers reassurance to the expecting mother. He advises immediate medical attention if any discomfort or symptoms arise, with doctors determining the cause through examinations like angiograms.
The cardiologist emphasizes that while the friend's case was unfortunate, it was a rare occurrence. Encouraging the woman to enjoy a stress-free pregnancy and undergo necessary tests, Dr. Sogunuru alleviates fears, reinforcing the idea that such incidents are isolated and not a prevailing risk for all expecting mothers.
The heartfelt narrative concludes with a poignant reminder to cherish the pregnancy journey and prioritize necessary health checks.