Understanding Heart Attacks: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when a part of the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood flow. The more time that passes without restoring blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

The symptoms of a heart attack can vary, but common signs include:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Pain in the neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cold sweat
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

Causes of a Heart Attack

Heart attacks are usually caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. The blockage is often due to:

• Coronary artery disease: The buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the coronary arteries.
• Blood clots: A ruptured plaque can form a blood clot that blocks