A heart attack happens when blood supply to the heart muscle is interrupted, causing damage to the heart muscle. This is a serious emergency that needs quick medical attention.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
The main reason for a heart attack is blockage of the heart arteries. This usually happens because:
● Fat and cholesterol build up in the walls of the arteries, narrowing them over time (like a clogged pipe).
● A blood clot forms and completely blocks blood flow.
● In rare cases, the artery can tighten (spasms) and cut off circulation.
Signs of a Heart Attack
A heart attack can feel different for different people, but common signs include:
● Prolonged Severe Chest Pain or Discomfort
● Shortness of breath
● Cold sweat
● Feeling sick
● Dizziness or fainting
🚨 Important: Women and older adults might have different symptoms, like extreme tiredness or mild pain in the shoulders or jaw.
What to Do If Someone Has a Heart Attack
- Call 995 (or your local emergency number) right away. Don’t wait!
- Stay calm and sit down – avoid exertion to reduce heart strain.
- If the person collapses and has no pulse, do CPR until help arrives.
Who Is at Risk?
Some people are more likely to have a heart attack, especially if they:
● Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
● Have diabetes
● Are overweight
● Smoke or drink too much alcohol
● Have lack of physical activity
● Have a family history of early onset heart artery disease or stroke
How to Prevent a Heart Attack
You can lower your risk by making simple lifestyle changes:
✔ Eat a Healthy Diet – more fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean meats; less junk food.
✔ Exercise – at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
✔ Maintain a Healthy Weight – obesity increases the risk of heart disease.
✔ Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol – get regular checkups, monitor levels and take prescribed medications if necessary.
✔ Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol – smoking leads to build up of plaque disease in the arteries
✔ Manage Stress – try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
How Is a Heart Attack Treated?
If you have a heart attack, doctors will:
- Treat you with medicine – including blood thinners, cholesterol lowering medicines.
- Perform a procedure using balloon or stent – to open up the artery.
- Consider heart surgery (bypass surgery) – if the blockage is severe.
Final Thoughts
A heart attack is serious, but it can often be prevented with healthy choices. If you or someone around you shows symptoms, act fast – it could save a life!