Emergency Warning
If you suspect a heart attack, call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately. Do not wait longer than 5 minutes to call for help. Quick action can prevent or limit heart damage and save your life.
Understanding Heart Attacks
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked. The blockage is usually caused by a buildup of fatty deposits, including cholesterol, that form plaque in the arteries that feed the heart (coronary arteries). When plaque breaks, a blood clot forms that can block blood flow, causing tissue damage or death in the heart muscle.
According to the American Heart Association, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds in the United States. Understanding and recognizing the symptoms early can significantly improve survival rates and reduce heart damage.
Common Heart Attack Symptoms
Heart attack symptoms can vary between individuals, and some people may have mild symptoms while others have severe ones. The most common signs include:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina): Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center or left side of the chest. It often feels like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. The feeling can last for more than a few minutes or go away and come back.
- Upper body discomfort: Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or upper part of the stomach (above the belly button).
- Shortness of breath: This may occur with or before chest discomfort. It can occur when you're resting or doing minimal physical activity.
- Other signs: Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness or sudden dizziness.
Symptoms in Women vs. Men
While chest pain is still the most common symptom in women, they are more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly:
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea/vomiting
- Back or jaw pain
- Unexplained fatigue
Time is Muscle
The longer a heart attack goes untreated, the greater the damage. The amount of damage to your heart muscle may be reduced if you receive medical treatment within 90 minutes of the start of symptoms.
Immediate Actions During a Heart Attack
- Call Emergency Services (911): Don't try to drive yourself to the hospital. Emergency responders can begin treatment as soon as they arrive.
- Take Aspirin: If recommended by emergency services and you're not allergic, take an aspirin. Aspirin helps prevent blood clotting.
- Rest and Stay Calm: Sit or lie down, try to stay calm, and wait for emergency help to arrive.
- Unlock the Door: If you're alone, unlock your door so emergency workers can get in.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Several medical conditions and lifestyle factors can increase your risk of a heart attack:
Medical Risk Factors:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Diabetes
- Family history of heart disease
Prevention Strategies:
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly.
- Healthy Diet: Follow a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, and excess sodium.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quit. Avoid secondhand smoke.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.
- Regular Check-ups: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels regularly with your healthcare provider.
Important Note
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice and treatment.