Sentimentos e subjetividades de pessoas que vivenciaram o infarto agudo do miocárdio: Estudo qualitativo

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the main cardiovascular diseases, accounting for the majority of deaths in Brazil and worldwide. Furthermore, due to the symbolism of the heart as the sustaining center of life, it is associated with anguish and fear in situations that threaten its integrity. OBJECTIVE: To understand the feelings and perceptions experienced by people who have suffered an AMI in the last 5 years and are treated at a university hospital in the interior of Sergipe. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was carried out through a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, using semi-structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews, addressed by content analysis. The study population included people between 40 and 70 years of age who had an AMI in the last 5 years and were treated at the university hospital in Lagarto, Sergipe. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The sample consisted of 18 participants of both sexes, 12 of whom were male. Content analysis revealed six textual categories, demonstrating that fear stands out among the emotions, but feelings of despair, anxiety, anguish, sadness, doom, surprise, apprehension, and gratitude were also present in the context of the AMI experience. The interviewee's perception of emotions as a risk factor precipitating the event was also demonstrated. CONCLUSION: People who experienced AMI presented feelings and subjectivities that led to changes in current behavior, impacting adherence to guidance and treatment. However, the quality of life of some remained impaired even with lifestyle changes after the AMI.