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Heart Attack

What Is A Heart Attack?

heart-attack risk Commonly known as a heart attack, myocardial infarction occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart is interrupted. It is the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States. Heart attacks are most often caused by the blockage if a coronary artery following the rupture of a plaque that had formed on the artery wall. If left untreated, the restriction in blood supply, known as ischemia, can cause the heart tissue to become damaged or even die.

Heart attack symptoms include:
  • Chest pain (typically down the left arm or left side of the neck, and often described as a sensation of tightness, pressure, or squeezing)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Palpitations
  • Sweating
  • Anxiety

Women may not have as many of these typical symptoms, and also commonly report:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness
  • Feeling of indigestion
  • Fatigue

Surprisingly, the onset of heart attack is usually gradual, developing over several minutes. If you or someone you love is experiencing the above-listed symptoms, call emergency services immediately to help prevent damage to the heart.

Am I at Risk for Heart Attack?

There are many factors that influence your risk of heart attack, some you have control over and some you don't.
Common risk factors include:

  • Gender (men are at higher risk, although heart disease is the most common killer of women as well)
  • Older age
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Uncontrolled stress and anger

Reducing Your Heart Attack Risk

Some people will naturally have a higher risk of heart attack than others. But you are not powerless against it. Here are some ways you can reduce your heart disease risk:

Most importantly, call 911 if you think it's a life-threatening situation or contact a medical professional if you have additional questions, or think you might be experiencing heart attack symptoms.