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Why is it called Widow Maker?

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Why is it called Widow Maker?

The LAD artery carries fresh blood into the heart so that the heart gets the oxygen it needs to pump properly. If it’s blocked, the heart can stop very fast — which is why this type of heart attack is called a “widowmaker.”

What is the Widow Maker?

A widowmaker is an informal term for a heart attack that involves 100 percent blockage in the left anterior descending (LAD) artery, says Stanley Chetcuti, M.D., an interventional cardiologist at the University of Michigan Frankel Cardiovascular Center.

Can the widow maker artery be stented?

“Many people can survive widow-makers if we get them treatment right away,” Niess said. And the patient’s blocked artery can often be reopened with a stent, he added. Like other types of heart attack, this one is largely preventable.

What are the signs of a Widow Maker?

Symptoms

  • Chest pain or discomfort. This is the most common symptom for women and men.
  • Upper body pain or discomfort. You might feel it in one or both arms, your back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath. You feel like you can’t catch your breath.
  • Nausea.
  • Cold sweat.
  • Lightheadedness.
  • Pain in the back of the jaw.

What is the survival rate of a Widowmaker?

And while Lucci was fortunate to avoid one, widowmakers are often, as the name implies, fatal. According to a TIME Magazine article, the AHA reports that only about 12 percent of people who suffer this type of heart attack away from a hospital survive.

Can you live with a 100 percent blocked artery?

“A 100% blocked artery does not mean a patient has to undergo a bypass surgery. Most of these blocks can be safely removed by performing an Angioplasty and the long term results are as good or are better than surgery.

What vitamin removes plaque from arteries?

Niacin, or Vitamin B3, is the best agent known to raise blood levels of HDL, which helps remove cholesterol deposits from the artery walls.

Which fruit juice is good for arteries?

Researchers found that pomegranate juice not only appears to prevent hardening of the arteries by reducing blood vessel damage, but the antioxidant-rich juice may also reverse the progression of this disease.

How do you stop a Widowmaker?

Consider reducing your intake of saturated fats like butter, ghee, lard, fatty meat, and meat products – as well as full fat dairy products. Most importantly, remember to remain vigilant and have a regular checkup scheduled with your doctor. Vigilance is the one true defense against the Widowmaker.