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A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, often due to a buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the coronary arteries. Without enough oxygen-rich blood, the heart muscle can become damaged or die.

Causes of a Heart Attack

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most common cause. Plaque builds up in arteries, reducing blood flow.

2. Plaque Rupture: A blood clot forms at the site of a ruptured plaque, blocking blood flow.

3. Spasm of Coronary Artery: A sudden tightening or spasm can cut off blood supply.

4. Risk Factors:

• • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Stress
  • Poor diet (high in saturated fat and processed food)

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Common symptoms:

• Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, squeezing, or fullness) that may last a few minutes or come and go.
• Pain radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, or back.
• Shortness of breath.
• Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion-like symptoms.
• Cold sweat.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness.

Atypical Symptoms (more common in women, elderly, or diabetics):

• Sudden fatigue
• Pain in the upper abdomen
• Fainting

What to Do in Case of a Heart Attack

1. Call Emergency Services Immediately: Every minute matters to prevent permanent damage.

2. Chew Aspirin (if not allergic): 150–325 mg can help thin the blood and improve blood flow.

3. Stay Calm and Rest: Sit down and avoid exertion.

4. Nitroglycerin: If previously prescribed, take it as directed.

Treatment for Heart Attack

1. Immediate Hospital Care:

• • Medications like thrombolytics (clot busters), blood thinners, and pain relievers.
  • Angioplasty and Stenting: To reopen blocked arteries.
  • Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG): Rerouting blood flow around the blocked artery.

2. Recovery and Management:

• • Lifestyle changes: Quit smoking, improve diet, exercise regularly.
  • Medications: Blood thinners, beta-blockers, statins, and ACE inhibitors.
  • Cardiac rehabilitation: A supervised program to regain strength and prevent future heart issues.

Prevention of heart attacks

• Manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet (e.g., Mediterranean diet).
• Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes/week).
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Manage stress effectively.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, it’s critical to seek emergency medical help immediately. Early treatment saves lives.