A heart attack, medically known as myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is suddenly reduced or completely blocked. In many cases, the blockage develops when a cholesterol plaque inside a coronary artery ruptures and a blood clot forms at the site.
The most common warning sign is pressure, tightness, squeezing, or discomfort in the chest. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, cold sweating, nausea, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, or discomfort in the arms, shoulders, back, neck, or jaw. Symptoms can vary between individuals, and some people may have mild or less typical symptoms.
A heart attack is a medical emergency because prolonged blockage can permanently damage the heart muscle. Early medical treatment is important for restoring blood flow and limiting heart damage. After a heart attack, long-term treatment generally focuses on preventing another event through medicines, lifestyle changes, and management of conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
