Definition
During a heart attack, the blood supply that normally nourishes the heart with oxygen cuts off, and the heart muscle begins to die. Heart attacks (also called myocardial infarctions) are very common in the United States. In fact, one happens every 40 seconds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Causes
The leading cause of a heart attack is coronary heart disease (where plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart). The general build-up of plaque in the arteries is also known as atherosclerosis.
There are two main types of heart attack:
- Type I heart attacks are where plaque on the inner wall of the artery ruptures and releases cholesterol and other substances into the bloodstream. This can then form a blood clot and block the artery.
- In type II heart attacks, the heart does not receive as much oxygen-rich blood as it demands, however, there is not a complete blockage of an artery.
Other causes of heart attacks include:
- torn blood vessels
- blood vessel spasms
- drug misuse
- hypoxia, lack of oxygen in the blood
Risk factors
Risk factors such as age and family history cannot be changed. If you’re over 65 years old, your risk of having a heart attack is greater than people who are under age 65, according to the National Institute on Aging.
Also, if you have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, or diabetes, you may have a higher risk of having a heart attack.
However, you can make changes related to the following modifiable factors:
- smoking
- high cholesterol
- obesity
- lack of exercise
- eating a diet high in trans and saturated fats
- excessive alcohol consumption
- stress
- diabetes or prediabetes
- sleep apnea
Symptoms
Some people who are having a heart attack have prior warning signs, such as chest pain, while others show no signs.
People having a heart attack can experience a mix of symptoms regardless of sex or gender. However, there are sex-specific differences in the presentation, biology, and outcomes of heart attacks.
General symptoms of a heart attack may include:
- chest pain or discomfort
- shortness of breath
- pain in the arm, shoulder, or neck
- nausea
- sweating
- lightheadedness or dizziness
- fatigue
- upper body pain
- trouble breathing
A heart attack is a serious medical emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that could signal a heart attack.
Diagnosis
Doctors typically diagnose a heart attack after they perform a physical exam and review your medical history. Your doctor will likely conduct an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart’s electrical activity.
They should also take a sample of your blood or perform other tests to see if there’s evidence of heart muscle damage.
Treatment
Your doctor may prescribe the following medications to treat your heart attack:
- aspirin
- other drugs to break up clots
- antiplatelet and anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners
- pain relievers
- nitroglycerin
- blood pressure medication
- Beta-blockers
Alternative treatments and lifestyle changes can also improve your heart health and reduce your risk of a heart attack. A nutrient-rich, balanced diet and health-promoting lifestyle are essential in maintaining a healthy heart.
Complications
Heart attacks can result in various complications. When a heart attack occurs, it can disrupt your heart’s normal rhythm, potentially stopping it altogether. These abnormal rhythms are known as arrhythmias.
When your heart stops getting a supply of blood during the heart attack, some of the tissue can die. This can weaken the heart and later cause life-threatening conditions such as heart failure.
Heart attacks can also affect your heart valves and cause leaks. The amount of time it takes to receive treatment and the area of damage will determine the long-term effects on your heart.
Recovery
A heart attack can damage your heart muscles and impact their function. This can include changing your heart’s rhythm and reducing its ability to pump blood around your body.
After surviving a heart attack, it is important to work with your healthcare team to design a recovery plan. This can include:
- participating in light exercise, according to what your doctor approves
- eating a nutrient-dense, balanced diet
- undergoing cardiac rehabilitation
- quitting smoking if you smoke
- avoiding strenuous activities, especially shortly after the heart attack
Prevention
While there are many risk factors that you cannot control, there are some basic steps you can take to help keep your heart healthy. Here are a few examples:
- Try to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet as often as possible.
- Stay active as much as you can, including exercising regularly.
- If you smoke, consider talking with your doctor about starting a smoking cessation program. Quitting smoking can help reduce your risk because smoking is a major cause of heart disease.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- All of these steps are important in lowering your risk of developing heart disease and potentially having a heart attack.
If you have diabetes, you should be sure to take your medications as your doctor prescribes and check your blood glucose levels regularly.
If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition, you should work closely with your doctor and follow your treatment plan, which includes taking medications as prescribed.
Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns about your risk of a heart attack.