Heart Attack: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention You Should Know

Heart attack (Myocardial Infarction) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It occurs when the blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, usually due to a clot in the coronary arteries. Recognizing the early signs and taking preventive measures can save lives.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack happens when the supply of oxygen-rich blood to part of the heart muscle is suddenly cut off. Without quick treatment, the affected heart tissue begins to die, which can lead to severe complications or even death.

Warning Signs & Symptoms of a Heart Attack

The symptoms may vary, but some common signs include:

• Chest pain, tightness, or pressure (lasting more than a few minutes)

• Pain spreading to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, or jaw

• Shortness of breath

• Sweating, nausea, or vomiting

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

• Sudden fatigue or weakness

⚠️ Important: Some people, especially women and diabetic patients, may have “silent” heart attacks with mild or unusual symptoms.

Major Causes & Risk Factors

Several lifestyle and health conditions increase the chances of a heart attack:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol levels

• Diabetes

• Smoking and alcohol use

• Obesity and lack of physical activity

• Family history of heart disease

• Stress and unhealthy eating habits

Diagnosis of Heart Attack

Doctors use the following tests for confirmation:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) – Detects abnormal heart rhythms

• Blood tests – Measure cardiac enzymes released during a heart attack

• Echocardiogram – Checks heart pumping function

• Angiography – Identifies blocked arteries

Treatment Options

Quick treatment can save lives and reduce heart damage:

• Emergency care: CPR, oxygen support, clot-busting medicines

• Angioplasty & Stents: Opens blocked arteries

• Bypass Surgery (CABG): Restores blood flow using healthy vessels

• Medications: Blood thinners, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, cholesterol-lowering drugs