Heart Attack

What is a Heart Attack?

Heart attacks are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. They occur when the heart’s blood flow gets blocked for various reasons, including high cholesterol, eating disorders, and a genetic predisposition to heart disease.

Medically known as myocardial infarction, it restricts the blood flow to the heart and damages the heart muscles. In the event of a heart attack, call 911 immediately and get medical assistance. The physician will check your blood pressure and pulse and run blood tests before conducting further diagnosing tests like:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)

• Echocardiography

• Cardiac catheterization

• Stress testing

• Hypertension

After diagnosis, the physician will determine the treatment method depending on the severity of the case. Medications like pain relievers and surgery operations are done to treat heart attacks. Some procedures that restore the blood flow include:

• Coronary angioplasty

• Bypass surgery

• Stent placement

• Balloon angioplasty

What are the risk factors and symptoms of a Heart Attack?

Heart attacks are caused when the arteries become clogged with fatty deposits called plaques. Plaques can rupture the blood vessels, causing blood clots and triggering a heart attack. Various risk factors cause heart attacks, such as:

• Obesity

• Smoking

• Family history

• Cholesterol

• Hypertension

• Lack of physical activity

• Drug use

Symptoms of Heart Attack

Symptoms of heart attack can vary for each person. Chest pain, dizziness, severe fatigue, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeat, and sweating can be typical signs of a heart attack.

However, symptoms experienced by women may be different. It may include:

• Unusual and sudden fatigue

• Nausea or vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Insomnia

• Pain in the back, shoulders, or abdomen

Through diagnosis and treatment, the heart can function back to normal again. It is recommended to undergo cardiac rehabilitation to recover entirely by medications and lifestyle changes. You need to maintain a healthy lifestyle and take regular checkups.