Why Do Heart Attacks Come?

What Triggers a Heart Attack? Key Signs & Prevention Tips

Myocardial Infarction (MI), or heart attack, is a medical emergency. In this scenario, your heart muscles die due to a lack of blood flow. Immediately call an ambulance if you or someone you know is facing a heart attack. If it is left untreated for long, it may cause death or permanent heart damage. Let us see why this happens.

Hypoxia (Lack of Oxygen)

Lack of oxygen is a rare cause of a heart attack, but a dangerous one. If your heart muscles do not receive enough oxygenated blood, they will stop functioning properly. It can happen due to carbon monoxide poisoning or lung failure, resulting in a heart attack.

Coronary Heart Disease

CHD, or coronary heart disease, is one of the main causes of heart attacks. In this, the main blood vessels in your heart (coronary blood vessels) get blocked. Cholesterol and other substances (called plaques) may cause this blockage.

These plaques burst before a heart attack, causing a blood clot. It can trigger a heart attack.

Other Causes of Heart Attack

Other factors can also cause a heart attack. They are:

• SCAD: Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection, or SCAD, is a condition characterised by a tear in the heart artery. It is a life-threatening condition and can trigger a heart attack.
• Coronary Artery Spasm: In this condition, a non-blocked artery gets squeezed very tightly. It is caused by the early hardening of cholesterol plaques in your blood vessels.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Knowing the symptoms of a heart attack is crucial and can save your life or others. However, the symptoms differ from person to person. They are:

• Sweating
• Upset stomach
• Anxiety
• Chest tightness
• Squeezing
• Chest discomfort
• Indigestion
• Fullness
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Discomfort in your throat, back, jaw or arm
• Shortness of breath

On the other hand, people assigned female at birth are more likely to feel:

• Trouble sleeping
• Lightheadedness
• Unusual fatigue
• Discomfort in the gut
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Who is at Risk of a Heart Attack?

Although anyone might get a heart attack, certain factors increase the risk. Let us discuss them below:

• Stress: Constant stress releases a hormone called cortisol. This hormone reduces the good cholesterol and increases your chances of a stroke.
• Smoking: Long-term tobacco use not only harms your lungs but also increases your risk of having a heart attack.
• Age: As you age, your chance of a heart attack increases. It is because, with age, your heart muscles become weak. Men older than 45 and women older than 55 are more likely to experience this.
• Gender: Men are more likely to have a heart attack than women.
• Race: According to numerous studies, Asian people are more likely to experience this.
   

How to Prevent a Heart Attack?

Even if you have experienced a heart attack, it is never too late to prevent it. The following are some ways to prevent a heart attack:

• Live a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, incorporate fruits, vegetables, healthy oils (unsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, canola oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds), and whole grains in your diet. Avoid packed foods and excessive sugar.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Stay active by engaging yourself in physical activities, meditations, or yoga. Regular exercise improves heart health and helps manage weight.
• Quit smoking: Do not smoke as it increases the risk of heart disease.
• Monitor and manage other health conditions: Several conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can increase the risk of heart attacks. Stay in touch with your doctor and monitor these conditions.
• Take medications as prescribed: If your health professional has prescribed medications take them exactly as directed, as it enhances your heart health.
   

Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of heart attacks. If someone is having a heart attack in front of you, call 102 for an ambulance. Provide the necessary information, such as the location and the person's condition, to the operator. If the person does not have a pulse, start CPR.

Also Read:

→ Why is My Heart Beating Fast for No Reason

→ What is a Human Heart Rate

→ Which Food is Good for the Heart

→ Can Cardiomyopathy Be Cured

→ What is Angio Surgery (Angioplasty)