Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the U.S. year after year. Heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when that heart muscle is suddenly starved of oxygen and nutrients. A heart attack can lead to serious damage to the heart or even death.
A number of factors can contribute to heart attack, some of which can be controlled. Here are some facts you should know about heart attacks and what you can do to prevent them from happening to you.
Most heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease, in which fatty plaque deposits build up and narrow the arteries that carry blood to the heart. A piece of plaque can break off, causing a blood clot, which may suddenly block the artery. The heart cannot get its normal supply of oxygen and nutrients, and heart attack symptoms occur.
Heart attack risks are divided into several different categories. Some factors, such as genetics or previous heart damage cannot be changed. African-Americans, Mexican-Americans, Native Americans, and some Asian Americans are at higher risk. Other risk factors for a heart attack are modifiable, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, controlling blood sugar, and managing high blood pressure. Certain lifestyle factors can be modified to reduce the risk of having a heart attack, such as changing to a healthier diet, incorporating regular exercise into your lifestyle, and limiting your alcohol use.
Chest pain or a feeling of pressure in the center of the chest is one of the classic symptoms of a heart attack. The feeling may come and go, or be constant. An individual may feel short of breath. A heart attack can sometimes feel like a bad case of indigestion. Some people break out in a cold sweat, or they may feel lightheaded. Nausea and vomiting can also be symptoms of a heart attack. The person may suddenly collapse or become unconscious. If you experience any symptoms such as these, you should immediately seek medical attention to be evaluated for a heart attack.
Women sometimes experience a heart attack differently than men. They may have an overwhelming feeling of fatigue. They may have a feeling of fullness or pressure in the chest. They may have shortness of breath, but without chest pain. Pain may occur in the back, stomach, or in both arms. There may be a cough, dizziness, or palpitations. Any unusual symptom such as these should prompt the woman to seek medical evaluation.
The physician will do blood tests and imaging to make an accurate diagnosis. Generally, patients are given clot-dissolving drugs or procedures such as angioplasty to open up blood vessels. Bypass or open-heart surgery may be needed. After treatment, your doctor will provide a care plan to prevent future heart problems.
Having a heart attack can leave an individual feeling confused, afraid and uncertain. You can take a proactive approach to prevent another attack by taking medication precisely as directed, attending all your scheduled doctor visits, and engaging in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program to help individuals learn to eat, exercise, and live in ways that promote heart health. Sometimes, it includes counseling to help learn better ways to deal with stress and to regain confidence in your body systems.
Today’s medications and treatments offer individuals who have experienced a heart attack a better chance of recovery and returning to normal activities. Your doctor can help you to take advantage of the current research on heart disease to implement a better diet, more frequent exercise, stress management, and regular physicals to reduce your risk of heart attack, so you can continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.