The use of illegal substances has transformed the epidemiological profile of emergency rooms. What was once considered a pathology exclusive to older adults or patients with comorbidities, today affects young people in their 30s with apparently healthy hearts. HERE you can listen to the podcast.
This is what Dr. Carlos Yebra, cardiology resident and reference in simplified medical disclosure, explains in the latest installment of his successful podcast “Medicina con Cabeza”.
Click on the photo to listen to the podcast
Dr. Yebra, recognized for his ability to explain cardiovascular complexity through his platform and specialized courses at medicinaconcabeza.com, details how cocaine acts as a devastating metabolic trigger.
The substance causes a massive discharge of catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline) that results in a sudden increase in heart rate, hypertension and, fundamentally, vasoconstriction of the coronary arteries.
“Less oxygen supply and more demand; it’s the perfect scenario for a heart attack,” explains the specialist.
Damage can occur by three routes: vasospasm so intense that it blocks flow, thrombosis over a previous plaque, or rupture of the vascular wall due to extreme pressure.
Emergency management: The mistake that can be fatal
One of the critical points of the episode centers on the initial medical intervention.
Dr. Yebra calls the attention of health professionals to the use of certain drugs.
In patients with cocaine infarction, beta-blockers are contraindicated from the outset.
“If we block the beta receptors, the whole load of catecholamines goes to the alpha receptors, which could cause an adrenergic crisis and massive vasospasm,” warns the cardiologist.
The recommended protocol is based on the use of benzodiazepines to reduce sympathetic tone and nitroglycerin to combat vasospasm.
Cocaine infarction in young people
Dr. Carlos Yebra urges emergency teams to maintain a high index of suspicion for young patients with oppressive chest pain, anxiety and agitation, even if they have no history of diabetes, smoking or hypertension.
The episode concludes with a strong preventive message: cocaine is not merely a “recreational” substance, but an agent with direct and potentially lethal consequences for the cardiovascular system.
The episode is now available on all audio platforms, such as Apple Podcast and Spotify, where you can also listen to other titles promoted by QuéOnnda and Nueva Network, such as A tu Salud Mujer Podcast.
Filed under: Cocaine Infarction in Young People