Cardiovascular
Heart Attack
About Heart Attack
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked for a long enough time that a section of the heart muscle is damaged or dies. This blockage is most often due to a buildup of plaque (fats, cholesterol, and other substances) in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Common Symptoms
- Chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain
- Pain or discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Unusual fatigue (especially in women)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record the heart's electrical activity and blood tests to check for specific cardiac enzymes that are released when heart muscle is damaged. Imaging tests like echocardiography may also be used to visualize heart function and damage.
Causes
The primary cause of a heart attack is coronary artery disease (CAD), where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and making them prone to blockages. A heart attack can also be triggered by a blood clot forming at the site of a ruptured plaque, completely blocking blood flow.
Treatment Overview
Conventional medical interventions for a heart attack commonly focus on restoring blood flow to the heart quickly, which may involve medications, angioplasty, or bypass surgery. Rehabilitation programs are often recommended following stabilization. Some individuals explore complementary approaches, such as dietary modifications or stress reduction techniques, often in conjunction with their prescribed medical care.
Prognosis & Outlook
The prognosis after a heart attack can vary depending on factors such as the extent of heart muscle damage, how quickly treatment was received, and overall health status. Many individuals can go on to lead full lives, often with lifestyle changes and ongoing medical management to help reduce the risk of future events.
Types & Variants
STEMI (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction)
Caused by a complete and prolonged blockage of a major coronary artery. It is a very serious type of heart attack that causes significant damage to the heart muscle.
NSTEMI (Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction)
Usually caused by a partial or temporary blockage of a coronary artery. While typically less damaging than a STEMI, it is still a serious medical emergency requiring immediate care.
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