Understanding Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Diet Plan

Sandeep Dhand
Nutritionist And Health Educator

Introduction

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a serious medical condition related to the heart. It happens when the blood flow to the heart is suddenly reduced or blocked. The heart needs oxygen-rich blood to work properly. When blood cannot reach the heart, it can cause chest pain or even a heart attack. This condition requires quick medical help and proper care to prevent further damage.

In this article, we will explain ACS in simple words—its causes, symptoms, types, treatment options, and a healthy diet plan that can help in recovery and prevention.

What is Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

ACS is not one single disease. It is a term used for a group of conditions that are caused by sudden and reduced blood flow to the heart. The blood vessels that supply the heart are called coronary arteries. If these arteries become blocked or narrowed, the heart cannot get enough oxygen. This can lead to damage in the heart muscles or even heart failure if not treated on time.

Types of Acute Coronary Syndrome

There are three main types of ACS:

1. Unstable Angina

Unstable angina happens when the heart does not get enough blood flow, but the blockage is not complete. It is a warning sign of a possible heart attack.

Key symptoms:

Chest pain that comes without warning

Pain that lasts longer than stable angina

Pain that does not go away with rest or medicine

2. Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)

This is a type of heart attack where part of the artery is blocked. It does cause damage to the heart, but it is not as severe as a full heart attack.

Symptoms:

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Sweating and fatigue

3. ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)

This is the most serious form of heart attack. In STEMI, the coronary artery is completely blocked, and the heart muscle begins to die due to lack of oxygen.

Symptoms:

Severe chest pain

Pain spreading to arms, jaw, or back

Nausea, cold sweats, and dizziness

Causes of ACS

The main cause of Acute Coronary Syndrome is a sudden blockage in the coronary arteries. This can happen due to:

1. Atherosclerosis

This is a condition where fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up inside the arteries. These are called plaques. Over time, these plaques can rupture and cause a blood clot, leading to blockage.

2. Blood Clots

When a plaque in the artery breaks, the body tries to heal it by forming a blood clot. This clot can block the flow of blood to the heart.

3. Spasm of Coronary Artery

Sometimes, the artery can suddenly tighten (spasm), even without a plaque. This can also reduce or stop blood flow.

4. Severe Physical Stress

High physical or emotional stress, especially in people with heart disease, can increase the risk of ACS.

Risk Factors for ACS

Some factors make a person more likely to develop ACS. These include:

Smoking

High blood pressure (hypertension)

High cholesterol

Diabetes

Overweight or obesity

Lack of physical activity

Unhealthy eating habits

Stress

Family history of heart disease

Age (risk increases with age)

Gender (men are at higher risk, but women’s risk increases after menopause)

Symptoms of Acute Coronary Syndrome

Recognizing the signs of ACS can save a life. The most common symptoms include:

Chest pain or discomfort (may feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing)

Pain spreading to arms, back, neck, or jaw

Shortness of breath

Sweating (cold sweats)

Dizziness or fainting

Nausea or vomiting

Fatigue

Feeling anxious or restless

Note: Not all people experience chest pain. In some cases, especially in women, older adults, or diabetics, symptoms may be mild or different.

Diagnosis of ACS

Doctors use several tests to confirm if a person has ACS:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – This test records the heart’s electrical activity and helps detect a heart attack.
2. Blood Tests – To check for certain enzymes that are released when the heart is damaged.
3. Echocardiogram – An ultrasound of the heart to see how well it is working.
4. Angiography – A test that uses dye and X-rays to look at blood flow in the coronary arteries.

Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndrome

The treatment depends on the type and severity of ACS. The main goals are to restore blood flow, relieve pain, prevent further damage, and reduce the risk of future attacks.

1. Emergency Care

Oxygen therapy

Nitroglycerin to reduce chest pain

Aspirin to thin the blood

Blood thinners (e.g., heparin)

2. Medications

Beta-blockers: Lower heart rate and blood pressure

ACE inhibitors: Help heart pump better

Statins: Lower cholesterol levels

Antiplatelet drugs: Prevent blood clots

Pain relievers

3. Procedures

a. Angioplasty and Stenting

A small balloon is used to open the blocked artery, and a stent (small mesh tube) is placed to keep it open.

b. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)

A surgery where blood flow is rerouted around the blocked artery using a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body.

Recovery and Lifestyle Changes

After treatment, long-term care and changes in lifestyle are very important to prevent future heart problems.

1. Quit Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of clots. Quitting can improve heart health within weeks.

2. Healthy Diet

Eating the right foods helps reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, and body weight.

3. Exercise

Regular physical activity (like walking, swimming, or cycling) strengthens the heart.

4. Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the load on the heart.

5. Stress Management

Stress can trigger heart problems. Practice meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies to relax.

6. Regular Checkups

Keep regular follow-ups with your doctor to monitor your heart health.

Heart-Healthy Diet Plan for ACS Patients

A balanced diet plays a key role in recovery and prevention of ACS. Here’s a simple diet plan:

Foods to Include:

Fruits and Vegetables: At least 5 servings per day (apples, oranges, spinach, carrots)

Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, whole wheat bread

Lean Proteins: Skinless chicken, fish (rich in omega-3 like salmon), legumes

Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, olive oil, avocado

Low-fat Dairy: Milk, curd, paneer (in small amounts)

Fluids: 8–10 glasses of water daily

Herbs and Spices: Use turmeric, garlic, ginger instead of salt

Foods to Avoid:

Fried foods

Processed meats (like sausages)

Full-fat dairy products

Too much salt and sugar

Bakery items and fast foods

Packaged snacks with trans fats

Sugary drinks and soda

Sample Diet Chart

Prevention of ACS

Even if you have not experienced ACS, you can lower your risk with these steps:

Maintain a healthy diet

Exercise 30 minutes a day

Control diabetes and blood pressure

Avoid tobacco and alcohol

Manage stress

Go for regular health checkups

Conclusion

Acute Coronary Syndrome is a life-threatening condition, but with timely treatment and the right lifestyle changes, it can be managed and even prevented. Knowing the warning signs, staying active, eating heart-healthy foods, and taking prescribed medicines can all help in protecting your heart.