Heart attack

Overview

Heart attack

A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, is a life-threatening event that occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is severely restricted or completely blocked. Without an adequate blood supply, that part of the heart muscle begins to die. The damage can be permanent, and without swift action, it can be fatal. This is why understanding the signs, knowing the risks, and acting immediately are so incredibly vital for everyone. We can, and must, do better to equip ourselves and our communities with this critical knowledge.

Symptoms

More Information

Recognizing a heart attack isn't always as dramatic as we see on television. The symptoms can be subtle, and they can vary significantly from person to person. While some may experience the classic crushing chest pain, others, particularly women, older adults, and people with diabetes, may have much less obvious signs. It's a spectrum, not a single event.

The most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes. It might feel like pressure, squeezing, tightness, or aching. That discomfort can also spread to other parts of the upper body, radiating to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or even the upper belly. But don't stop there. Other important symptoms include cold sweats, an overwhelming sense of fatigue, lightheadedness or sudden dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. We have to pay attention to these, even if they seem minor. A brief, sharp pain in the neck or back, for example, could be a warning sign we can’t afford to ignore.

When to see a doctor

What to do if you see someone who might be having a heart attack

This is a moment where every second counts. If you or someone you're with exhibits any of the symptoms we've discussed, please, take them seriously. Your first and most critical action is to call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. The emergency dispatchers can provide instructions for CPR if needed, and first responders are equipped to begin life-saving treatment on the way to the hospital, which can make all the difference in the world.

If you are with someone who may be having a heart attack, and emergency services are not an option, have someone else drive them to the nearest hospital. Do not, under any circumstances, try to drive yourself to the hospital if you are the one experiencing symptoms. The risk of losing consciousness and causing a crash is too great. The key here is speed, and allowing trained professionals to take control ensures the best possible outcome.

Causes

A heart attack is most often caused by a buildup of a sticky substance called plaque within the coronary arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This plaque, a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other materials, narrows the arteries over time, reducing blood flow to the heart. When a piece of this plaque ruptures, it can trigger the formation of a blood clot. This clot can then completely block the artery, stopping the flow of blood and causing a heart attack. Less common causes include a sudden and temporary artery spasm that cuts off blood flow, certain infections like COVID-19, and a rare but serious condition called spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), where a tear forms in a coronary artery wall.

Risk factors

While some risk factors for a heart attack are unavoidable, like age or family history, many are within our control. An individual's risk increases for men 45 and older and for women 55 and older. Additionally, a close family history of heart disease is a significant indicator. However, a huge portion of risk is tied directly to our daily choices and health conditions. Smoking and long-term exposure to secondhand smoke are major culprits. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes all contribute by damaging arteries over time. A sedentary lifestyle, a diet high in processed foods and unhealthy fats, and chronic stress are also powerful risk factors. Illegal drug use involving stimulants like cocaine can also trigger a heart attack. Finally, women who experienced preeclampsia during pregnancy or have autoimmune conditions like lupus also face an increased risk.

Complications

A heart attack can leave behind lasting damage that results in serious complications. Abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias, can develop, where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly. A weakened heart can lead to heart failure, a chronic condition where the heart can no longer pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. A stroke is another possible outcome if a blood clot travels to the brain. Finally, a sudden cardiac arrest, which is when the heart abruptly stops beating, can occur without warning, making a heart attack an even more frightening prospect.

Prevention

Preventing a heart attack is about taking proactive, consistent steps to care for your cardiovascular health. Regular medical check-ups are essential for monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. If you smoke, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your heart. Regular physical activity, even moderate exercise like a daily walk, dramatically lowers your risk. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting saturated fats, sugar, and processed foods is crucial. Maintaining a healthy weight and learning to manage stress are also vital. By making these changes, we can gain control over our health and work to reduce the rising tide of heart disease.

FAQ

Will heart attack pain come and go ? Yes, heart attack pain can fluctuate. It may go away and come back, or the intensity may change. The pain may be mild at first and gradually become more intense. It is critical not to dismiss these symptoms as they can signal an ongoing heart attack, and immediate medical attention is always required.

Published 27th August 2025

References

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