A heart attack happens when the blood flow to the heart is seriously reduced or blocked. This blockage is usually caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the heart's arteries. These buildups are called plaques. Sometimes, a plaque can burst, leading to a clot that blocks blood flow, causing damage to the heart muscle. Knowing the signs of a heart attack can help you get the medical help you need right away, which can save your life.
Don't think that every heart attack is the same! While you may have an image in your mind of what they look or feel like, silent heart attacks can be subtle and just as damaging. The longer your heart goes without blood flow, the more damage there is. Understanding common signs, the risk factors you can control, and steps to take to reduce your risk and get help in the case of an attack are the best ways to stay on top of your health! Here is a guide from PatientsLikeMe.
Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Heart attack symptoms can vary! Some people have intense pain, while others have mild or even no symptoms. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: This may feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or aching in the center of the chest. The pain might last for more than a few minutes or come and go.
- Pain in Other Parts of the Body: This can include pain or discomfort that spreads to the shoulders, arms, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or upper belly.
- Shortness of Breath: This can happen with or without chest pain.
- Cold Sweat: Breaking out in a cold sweat without a clear reason.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired, sometimes for days or weeks before a heart attack.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach or actually vomiting.
- Lightheadedness or Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or suddenly fainting.
Some heart attacks come on suddenly, but many people experience warning signs hours, days, or even weeks in advance. Chest discomfort or pressure is the most commonly reported early symptom. For women, abnormal fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns are also common.
Causes and Risk Factors
The main cause of heart attacks is coronary artery disease, which involves the buildup of plaques in the heart's arteries. Several factors increase the risk of a heart attack.
- Age: Men over 45 and women over 55 are at higher risk.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or long-term exposure to secondhand smoke.
- High Blood Pressure: Can damage arteries and lead to heart attacks.
- High Cholesterol: Especially high levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Obesity: Linked with other risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar increases heart attack risk.
- Family History: A family history of heart attacks can increase your risk.
- Lack of Exercise: Regular physical activity is important for heart health.
- Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in sugars, fats, and processed foods can increase risk.
- Stress: Emotional stress can trigger heart attacks.
- Illegal Drug Use: Drugs like cocaine can cause severe heart problems.
When to Seek Help
If you think you or someone else might be having a heart attack, it is crucial to get medical help immediately. On average, people wait 3 hours before seeking help when they are having a heart attack. This leads to preventable deaths. Here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 or Emergency Services: This is the fastest way to get help. Emergency medical staff can start treatment on the way to the hospital.
- Take Nitroglycerin if Prescribed: If a healthcare provider has prescribed nitroglycerin, take it as directed while waiting for emergency help.
- Take Aspirin if Recommended: Aspirin can help by reducing blood clotting, but only take it if advised by emergency medical personnel or a healthcare provider.
How to Help Someone Having a Heart Attack
If you see someone who might be having a heart attack:
- Call 911 or Emergency Services: Immediately call for help.
- Get them Comfortable: Have the person lie down, and keep them calm. Loosen any tight clothing.
- Check for Breathing and Pulse: If the person is not breathing or you can't find a pulse, begin CPR.
- Hands-Only CPR: If you’re not trained in CPR, push hard and fast on the center of the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- Full CPR: If you’re trained, start with 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths.
Prevention
Taking steps to prevent a heart attack is essential, even if you've already had one. The first, best step is to adopt healthy lifestyle changes. Don't smoke, eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and manage your stress. If you have underlying conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes, work with your doctor to keep those under control. Taking medications as directed is essential. Whatever your healthcare provider has instructed you to take you should be sure to follow closely.
Understanding the signs of a heart attack and acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome! Pay attention to your body, know the risk factors, and don't hesitate to seek medical help if you experience symptoms. Taking preventive measures can also help reduce your risk and improve your overall heart health. Remember, every minute counts, so act fast if you suspect a heart attack.