On September 20, 2024, I had a heart attack. I was 46 years old. I didn’t have any of the common risk factors, and my heart attack was an uncommon kind. It was caused by Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD). Never heard of it? Neither had I.
SCAD is when a tear suddenly occurs within the layers of one or more arteries to the heart, blocking blood flow to the heart and causing a heart attack. While the causes of SCAD are still being researched, the cause of mine was most likely significant emotional and psychological stress. How about that mind/body connection?
I experienced multiple cardiac episodes during the week leading up to my heart attack. After visits to the ER, urgent care, and my PCP, and several EKGs, scans, and blood tests all appearing normal, I almost didn’t go back to the ER during the big one. It’s still so scary to think what could have happened if I hadn’t gone back. I am so grateful for my second chance.
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. You know your body better than anyone. Don’t delay. Just go. And go again and again if you need to. Take good care of your physical health and mental health equally.