When the flow of blood to the heart is substantially diminished or blocked, a heart attack ensues. A buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other chemicals in the heart (coronary) arteries causes the blockage. Plaques are the fatty, cholesterol-containing deposits. The buildup of plaque is known as atherosclerosis.
A plaque can break and generate a clot, obstructing blood flow. A shortage of blood flow can cause portion of the heart muscle to be damaged or destroyed.
Myocardial infarction is another name for a heart attack.
A heart attack requires immediate treatment to avoid death. If you think you're experiencing a heart attack, dial 911 or get emergency medical care.
The signs and symptoms of a heart attack differ. Some people only experience minor signs and symptoms. Others have more severe signs and symptoms. Some persons have no signs or symptoms.
Symptoms of a heart attack include:
Pressure, tightness, soreness, squeezing, or agonizing sensations in the chest
Pain or discomfort that spreads to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or upper abdomen.
I'm breaking out in cold sweat.
Fatigue
Indigestion or heartburn
Sudden dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea
Breathing problems
Women may experience unusual symptoms such as severe or transient discomfort in the neck, arm, or back. Sudden cardiac arrest is sometimes the initial indication of a heart attack.
Some heart attacks happen unexpectedly. Many others, on the other hand, have warning signs and symptoms that appear hours, days, or weeks in advance. Angina (chest pain or pressure) that persists and does not go away with rest could be an early warning indication. Angina is a condition in which blood flow to the heart is temporarily reduced.
Obtain immediate medical assistance by dialing 911. If you suspect you're experiencing a heart attack, dial 911 or your local emergency number right away. Have someone drive you to the nearest hospital if you don't have access to emergency medical care. Only drive yourself if you have no other options.
If your doctor has prescribed nitroglycerin, take it as directed. While you wait for help, take it as directed.
If aspirin is prescribed, take it. Taking aspirin during a heart attack can help prevent blood clotting and thereby lessen cardiac damage.
Aspirin has the potential to interact with other medications. Take aspirin only if your doctor or emergency medical personnel advises you to. Call 911 right away if you need to take an aspirin. To begin, dial 911 for immediate assistance.
An immediate full blockage of a medium or large heart artery usually indicates a myocardial infarction with ST elevation (STEMI).
You've probably had a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction if you have a partial blockage (NSTEMI). Some persons with NSTEMI, however, have a complete blockage.
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It's never too late to take steps to prevent a heart attack — even if you've already had one. Here are ways to prevent a heart attack.
Follow a healthy lifestyle. Don't smoke. Maintain a healthy weight with a heart-healthy diet. Get regular exercise and manage stress.
Manage other health conditions. Certain conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, can increase the risk of heart attacks. Ask your health care provider how often you need checkups.
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