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Heart attack – Causes, signs, preventive strategies, and more

Heart attack – Causes, signs, preventive strategies, and more

A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is blocked, severely damaging the muscles. There are several reasons for a blockage, from plaque built up in the coronary arteries to blood clots. Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. So, understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of heart attacks is crucial for individuals to protect their heart health and reduce the risk of this life-threatening condition.

Causes or risk factors of heart attack

  • Narrowed arteries
    When arteries progressively harden or narrow over time, it can lead to a heart attack. Coronary artery disease (CAD) develops when a fatty deposit called plaque begins to build up on artery walls, narrowing or blocking them.
  • Blood clots
    It is possible for blood clots to develop in the arteries that supply the heart with necessary oxygen and nutrients. If a clot completely blocks blood flow, it can lead to a heart attack.
  • Spasms
    In some cases, the coronary arteries can suddenly spasm and temporarily narrow or close. This can reduce blood flow and trigger a heart attack.
  • Sedentary lifestyle
    Even those who are not currently at risk may weaken their heart muscles due to a lack of physical activity. They are also more likely to develop high LDL or harmful cholesterol levels in the body, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which are associated with heart attacks.
  • Lack of oxygen
    Lack of oxygen can damage the heart muscles and may trigger a heart attack. This can happen due to problems with normal lung function or carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Congenital heart defects
    Those born with structural defects in one’s heart, like small holes in heart chambers or the absence of a valve, are also at a higher risk of a heart attack.
  • Other health conditions
    Those already suffering from high blood pressure or hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels are also at risk of developing heart blockages.

Signs of a heart attack

  • Chest pain
    Chest pain associated with heart attack is a result of clogged arteries. This is the most common sign that should prompt one to enlist expert help. It can feel like one’s chest area is getting tight or squeezed. At times, one may get a burning sensation in the chest or general discomfort without any apparent reason.
  • Shortness of breath
    Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing can occur during a heart attack. If one experiences breathing difficulty in regular life, one is advised to check one’s heart health. One may also notice irregular heartbeats, often fluttering or pounding.
  • Stinging in arms
    If one experiences a stinging pain in the left side of one’s chest that seems to travel towards the left arm, it’s a sign of a heart attack and needs immediate health care. The stinging sensation may also extend to the back, shoulders, or feet.
  • Jaw or throat pain
    These two uncommon heart attack signs may be mistaken for sinus or dental concerns, but jaw and throat pain, especially when combined with some sort of chest pain or discomfort, may be a sign of a heart attack.
  • Pain radiating to other areas
    Chest pain associated with heart attack may also spread to the neck, back, or stomach regions.
  • Lightheadedness
    Heart blockages cut off or reduce blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscles, which may lead one to feel lightheaded, faint, or dizzy.
  • Indigestion
    Feeling nauseous or experiencing heartburn or indigestion without any lifestyle changes can be a result of weakened heart muscles. If associated with other heart attack symptoms, it’s best to get them diagnosed.
  • Fatigue
    Weakened heart muscles drop the energy levels of the body drastically. So, one may experience tiredness or fatigue more frequently and without justifiable physical activity.
  • Snoring
    Another surprising early sign of a compromised heart function is snoring, often associated with wheezing or gasping sounds. Poor cardiovascular health is often linked to sleep apnea, which is a serious health concern.
  • Coughing
    Another common sign is a persistent cough, often bringing up pink or white mucus or even blood.
  • Cold sweat
    People experiencing a heart attack may break into a cold sweat since the oxygen to the heart muscles is cut off.

What to do if one experiences a h eart attac k?
In the event of experiencing a heart attack, one should call 9-1-1 emergency services immediately. One is likely to receive a prompt CPR or defibrillation enroute to the hospital as the first line of defense, which can increase the chance of survival and protect the heart from severe damage.

Treatment options for heart attack
For severe blockages, bypass surgery or Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) may be necessary to reroute blood around the blocked arteries. A procedure called angioplasty may also be performed. Here, a surgeon widens a blocked artery using a thin, flexible tube. Oxygen or blood thinning therapy are other treatment options used to tackle blockages.

Simple ways to strengthen heart health

  • Physically active
    One of the most recommended preventive measures for heart attack is to follow an active lifestyle. This can include biking, hiking, swimming, walking, running, aerobic exercises, yoga, strength training, and more. Exercising helps the body to eliminate toxins, strengthens the heart muscles, prevents damage of arteries due to high cholesterol, and oxygenates the body better. Those who have type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure can start with low-impact exercises for a shorter duration and consult a professional for a suitable exercise routine as per their health condition.
  • Eating healthy
    Eating healthy is another factor that contributes to robust heart health. One can eat fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains and avoid foods high in saturated fats , trans fats, and sodium.
  • Stress management
    Stress is one of the major contributors that weakens the heart. One can practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
  • Managing other conditions
    Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes through lifestyle changes, treatments, and regular check-ups is also crucial.

Heart attacks are life-threatening events that require immediate attention. By adopting these measures and managing risk factors, individuals can significantly lower their chances of experiencing a heart attack and enjoy a longer, healthier life.

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