Should One Sit or Lie Down During a Heart Attack?

The full name of the disease related to heart attack is myocardial infarction. During a myocardial infarction, it is acceptable to either sit still or lie down, with lying down being the preferred option if conditions permit, as standing should be avoided. Acute myocardial infarction may lead to dysfunction in cardiac contraction and relaxation, resulting in reduced cardiac pumping capacity and stroke volume per beat, causing a decrease in blood pressure and hemodynamic instability. Decreased blood pressure can lead to reduced blood supply to the brain. When standing or sitting, the brain is at its highest position, requiring a certain amount of pressure to deliver blood to it. The brain is the most critical organ in the human body, and it will suffer irreversible damage if deprived of oxygen for 4-6 minutes. To ensure adequate blood supply to the brain, those experiencing acute myocardial infarction should, if conditions allow, choose to lie down and reduce physical activity. It is crucial to promptly call 120 and transfer the patient to a hospital equipped to treat myocardial infarction. Complete relevant examinations such as electrocardiogram (ECG), myocardial enzymes, coronary CT, and even emergency coronary angiography to ascertain the extent of cardiac vascular stenosis and select an appropriate treatment plan.