Emergency Care for Heart Attacks
A heart attack usually starts when a clot blocks one of the heart’s main arteries, cutting off the blood
supply. When the blood stops flowing, the heart muscle begins to get damaged almost right away.
This is why quick treatment makes such a huge difference, especially in STEMI cases where the
blockage is complete. Thrombolysis is one of the treatments doctors rely on when things need to
move fast. At Peacock Hospital, Dr. Basha and his team handle these emergency cases regularly, so
the process moves quickly once the patient arrives.
What Is Thrombolysis?
Thrombolysis is basically the use of special medicines that dissolve the blood clot responsible for the
heart attack. The drug is given through a vein, and it starts working on the fibrin (the stuff that keeps
the clot firm). A lot of people call it a clot-busting shot. It’s mainly used for STEMI because time
matters so much there. The idea is simple: reopen the blocked artery early so the heart doesn’t lose
too much muscle. There’s no machine involved — it’s really the medicine doing the heavy lifting.
When Is Thrombolysis Used?
This treatment works best when it’s given early, usually within the first few hours after symptoms
begin. In many places where angioplasty (PCI) can’t be done immediately, thrombolysis becomes the
first step. Doctors usually depend on ECG changes like ST elevation, along with strong symptoms
such as tight chest pain, sweating, or difficulty breathing. Sometimes the blood test results help too.
Once the picture is clear and PCI is not reachable in time, the medicine is started pretty quickly.
Types of Thrombolytic Agents
There are a few medicines used for this purpose. Streptokinase has been around for a long time and
is still used because it works and costs less. Alteplase (tPA) acts faster and is more targeted.
Tenecteplase is easier to give — it’s a single injection instead of a long drip, which helps in
emergencies. Although the dosing differs, all these medicines aim to reopen the blocked artery. The
choice usually depends on what the patient needs at that moment and what the hospital has
available.
Benefits of Thrombolysis
The biggest benefit is that it can restore blood flow very quickly. When the artery opens in time, the
heart muscle doesn’t get damaged as much. This reduces the chances of complications later, like
heart failure. Many studies show that early thrombolysis improves survival, especially when it’s
given during the early “golden hour.” For hospitals without immediate PCI, this treatment is often
the best starting point and keeps the patient stable until further treatment is arranged.
Risks and Contraindications
Like any strong treatment, thrombolysis has some risks — mainly bleeding. A small number of
people may experience bleeding inside the brain, which is why doctors check the patient’s history
carefully. People who recently had major surgery, those with active bleeding, very high blood
pressure, or certain types of previous strokes usually cannot receive it. The medical team acts
quickly, but they still run through these checks to make sure it’s safe.
Thrombolysis vs PCI
PCI physically opens the artery using a balloon and sometimes a stent, while thrombolysis depends
on medication to dissolve the clot. PCI is the preferred option if it can be done quickly enough
(usually within 90 minutes). But when that timeline isn’t possible, thrombolysis becomes the
immediate life-saving choice, especially in smaller or faraway hospitals.
Why Peacock Hospital?
Peacock Hospital runs a full-time emergency service for heart-related issues. Under Dr. Basha’s care,
patients are evaluated quickly — ECG, blood tests, monitoring, everything happens without delays.
The team is trained for rapid decision-making, especially when thrombolysis is needed. The whole
setup is meant to reduce time loss, because in heart attacks, time is everything.
Act Fast During a Heart Attack. Every Minute Counts.
If you or anyone around you develops sudden chest pain, don’t wait. Go straight to Peacock
Hospital, Thiruttani. Early treatment can save a life — get checked immediately by Dr. Basha.
