1. Blood Flow Interrupted
A heart attack is formally called a myocardial infarction, which means that blood flow to the heart is interrupted. The interruption is typically caused by a blockage in a coronary artery caused by plaque or a blood clot. The size of the blockage and the amount of permanent damage done to the heart muscle determines the severity of a heart attack.
2. As Serious as a Heart Attack
Symptoms of a heart attack can include mild or severe chest pain, but it may not be centered in the chest. Rather, it could be a pain that radiates down the left arm. Some people experience pain in their neck or jaw, or even their stomach. Other symptoms include profuse sweating, lightheadedness and shortness of breath. Some people have no symptoms, and are victims of a silent heart attack. If you do have any of these symptoms, call 911 right away. Delay increases your chances of permanent damage or even death.
3. Risky Business
Risk factors for a heart attack are commonly known. The biggest is smoking. If you smoke, you need to stop immediately. A diet with a lot of red meat and unhealthy sugars, combined with an inactive lifestyle, greatly increases your chance of having a heart attack. You also tax your heart if you're stressed out and angry all the time. When you talk to your doctor, ask about your cholesterol and blood pressure, and be sure to discuss any other conditions you may have. There is a known link between diabetes and heart disease.
4. Living Well is the Best Prevention
You can help prevent a heart attack by removing as many of the risk factors from your life as possible. Check with your doctor to determine how to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. Prescription medications can help, but they're more effective if you combine them with a healthy diet and exercise to help reduce your weight. Start engaging in small doses of physical activity by taking a short walk each day and building up to longer walks. Look into ways to manage anger and stress, whether you decide to take up yoga or talk to a therapist.
5. The Cure for a Broken Heart
People who suffer a heart attack are closely monitored at first. Patients may be given aspirin or nitrogen to thin the blood, which makes it easier for the oxygenated blood to reach the heart and ease breathing. Longterm treatments may include a surgical procedure to remove the blockage. A pacemaker can regulate the heartbeat, or a defibrillator might be used to deliver shocks to the heart to keep it ticking along. A doctor will almost certainly recommend behavior and lifestyle changes to help the patient fully recover.
