Things to Know When Recovering from a Heart Attack, with John Osborne, M.D., Ph.D.
John A. Osborne, M.D., Ph.D., discusses how rapid treatment can prevent significant heart damage by restoring blood flow as quickly as possible.
By
Lana Pine
| Published on February 14, 2025
2 min read
After recovering from a heart attack, one of the most important questions to ask your doctor is whether your heart muscle sustained significant damage. According to John A. Osborne, M.D., Ph.D., chief medical officer of ClearCardio and an American Heart Association expert volunteer, a heart attack by definition involves some level of heart damage, but in many cases, it can be minimal and well managed with timely treatment.
The best way to minimize damage is early intervention — getting to a cardiac catheterization lab as soon as possible to open the blocked artery, typically with a stent. This small metallic mesh device restores blood flow, preventing further harm to the heart muscle. However, if treatment is delayed, the damage can be more severe, impacting the heart’s ability to pump effectively.
A key measure of heart function post-heart attack is the ejection fraction (EF), which evaluates how well the heart squeezes blood out to the rest of the body. Doctors typically assess this with an echocardiogram, a noninvasive ultrasound that provides a clear picture of heart function.
If the ejection fraction is low, it’s crucial to start medications immediately to support heart function and prevent long-term complications.
Understanding the extent of heart damage and ensuring proper treatment can significantly improve recovery and long-term heart health. Osborne says patients should advocate for themselves by asking “What is my ejection fraction?” and working closely with their healthcare team to manage their condition effectively.
3 Things to Know When Recovering from a Heart Attack
- Determine whether there’s heart damage: A heart attack always involves some level of heart damage, but in many cases, it may be minimal if treated quickly.
- Ask about your EF: This measures how well your heart pumps blood; a lower EF may indicate significant heart damage.
- Work closely with your doctor: Understanding your heart’s condition and following a tailored recovery plan can significantly improve long-term health.
