Nana Patekar’s autopsy confirms heart attack; doctor explains how a blood clot can turn fatal

Nana Patekar's autopsy report has confirmed his death on October 8 due to a heart attack at his Goa residence. A leading doctor from Goa Medical College and Hospital explained that the cause of death was acute myocardial infarction resulting from left main coronary artery thrombosis due to atherosclerotic occlusive coronary artery disease.

Dr. Parin Sangoi, an interventional cardiologist, detailed how the left main coronary artery supplies a significant portion of the heart muscle and its sudden blockage by a blood clot can lead to a massive heart attack and potentially sudden cardiac arrest. He emphasized that coronary artery disease can develop silently over years without noticeable symptoms, and even healthy-appearing individuals can have underlying conditions.

The progression of blockages varies, and without symptoms, it does not necessarily indicate healthy arteries. Warning signs of a heart attack include chest discomfort, breathlessness, cold sweating, nausea, dizziness, and unusual fatigue, which can be mild or mistaken for other conditions. Risk factors include age, family history, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets.

Preventive measures involve regular health checks, medication, exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco. If a heart attack is suspected, it is crucial to treat it as an emergency by calling for immediate medical help, keeping the person resting, and initiating CPR if necessary.