Definition/Cause: A heart attack occurs when a clot blocks the blood flow of an artery. Over time, cholesterol and other substances may build up in the walls of the arteries, causing them to narrow. During a heart attack, the blood vessel becomes completely blocked, which can lead to organ damage. Atherosclerosis is the clinical term for the buildup of cholesterol (plaques) in our arteries.
Risk factors: Factors that may increase your risk of a heart attack include age (males >45 years old, females >55years old); tobacco use; high blood pressure; diabetes; high cholesterol; lack of physical activity; obesity; family history of heart disease; stress; illegal drug use; and history of preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Symptoms: The symptoms that are experienced during a heart attack vary from person to person. One person may not experience any symptoms, while a heart attack for someone else may be instantly fatal. Potential symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea & vomiting, sweating, fatigue, feelings of anxiety or impending doom, lightheadedness, and dizziness. If experienced, the severity of symptoms will also vary person to person.
What to do: If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 immediately. If you have the medication nitroglycerin or aspirin in the home, take them while waiting for the ambulance. Nitroglycerin helps reduce chest pain, while aspirin helps to prevent your blood from clotting. Once at the hospital, the doctors will decide the appropriate interventions and medications for treatment.
Prevention: Manage your risk factors. If you smoke, consider quitting. Drink only in moderation. Strive for 150 minutes of mild/moderate exercise each week. Make healthy food choices, particularly with regards to your saturated and trans fat intake. Maintain regular doctor’s visits. If you are hypertensive, diabetic, and/or have high cholesterol, be sure to take your medications as prescribed. Make efforts to reduce your stress.
If you have several risk factors, you may also consider discussing adding aspirin to your medication regimen. Taking a daily aspirin dose of 81-325mg helps to prevent blood clots, which should decrease your risk of heart attack.
