What Is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack happens when blood flow to part of the heart suddenly stops. Without enough oxygen, the heart muscle begins to be damaged within minutes.

This condition is a medical emergency. Getting care quickly can reduce long-term damage and improve survival.

What causes a heart attack?

Most heart attacks occur when a coronary artery becomes blocked. This often happens after fatty deposits in the artery wall rupture, forming a blood clot that blocks blood flow.

Risk factors may include:

• High blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Being overweight or inactive
• Family history of heart disease
• Ongoing stress or an unhealthy diet

Symptoms

A heart attack can feel different for each person, but there are common warning signs to watch for.

Common symptoms include:

• Pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest
• Discomfort spreading to the arm, neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cold sweats or clammy skin
• Feeling lightheaded or unusually tired

How Is It Diagnosed?

Heart attacks are usually diagnosed in an emergency setting. Providers act quickly to confirm what’s happening and begin treatment.

You may receive:

• An electrocardiogram (ECG) to check the heart rhythm
• Blood tests to detect heart damage
• Imaging tests, such as coronary angiography, are used to find blockages

How Is It Treated?

Treatment focuses on restoring blood flow as quickly as possible and protecting the heart muscle.

Early treatment may include:

• Oxygen therapy
• Medications to relieve pain and improve blood flow
• Blood thinners to prevent further clots

Advanced treatments may include:

• Angioplasty and stenting (PCI): A minimally invasive procedure to open blocked arteries
• Bypass surgery (CABG): Creating a new path for blood to flow around a blockage

Recovery often involves medications, lifestyle changes, and cardiac rehabilitation to strengthen the heart and reduce future risk.