The medical term for a heart attack is myocardial infarction, which arises from a thrombus that obstructs the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart.
Should this blood flow not be promptly restored, the injured heart tissue will begin to lose oxygen and eventually perish. Unfortunately, heart attacks can be fatal if proper medical care is not received.
Recognizing the signs of a heart attack is essential for timely intervention and treatment. Possible symptoms include dyspnea, lightheadedness, chest discomfort, and an abrupt feeling of weakness.
If you believe that you or someone close to you is having a heart attack, you must call emergency services immediately. The quicker you respond, the more likely you are to recover.
Following a heart attack, an active lifestyle is still possible. Many people who received timely medical attention and the appropriate care are still leading happy lives. Despite the fact that heart attacks are common, there are several ways to reduce your chance of having one.
Heart attacks are frequently caused by the heart not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood flow. Heart attacks are frequently caused by coronary artery disease, a heart condition that develops as the coronary arteries—the blood veins supplying your heart—narrow due to plaque accumulation.
With time, the constricted blood veins may cause breathing problems, chest pain, or a blockage that could cause a heart attack.
While symptoms aren’t always present, high blood pressure might increase the risk of experiencing a heart attack. Have your blood pressure checked during your regular appointment to see if it’s too high or too low, and discuss the results and any recommended treatments with your doctor.
A fasting lipoprotein profile test determines your cholesterol levels. Providers recommend doing this test once every four to six years for people who are at normal risk of having a heart attack. However, your doctor may suggest more frequent exams if you have a higher risk of heart disease, a heart attack, or a stroke.
