SCAD (tear in a heart artery)

Overview

SCAD is a leading cause of heart attacks in women under 50.

It isn't caused by plaque, so standard heart risk factors may be absent.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

Less common

• Sweating

Look up a symptom: Nausea · Racing or pounding heartbeat

When to get medical care

Causes

Artery tear.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women
• Pregnancy

Possible complications

• Heart attack: SCAD is a cause of heart attack
• Heart failure: If the heart muscle is damaged

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Angiogram:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Follow cardiac rehab
• Avoid extreme lifting

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to a cardiologist (heart doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• American Heart Association: Plain-language heart information and a support network for patients.
• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women around pregnancy: Higher risk.
• Women after childbirth: Higher risk.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most heal over months.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on SCAD (tear in a heart artery)