Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
A myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a sudden, life‑threatening condition in which part of the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen. The infarction is most often caused by the sudden blockage of a coronary artery. Treatment is highly effective when started quickly. A heart attack always requires urgent medical care.
What causes a heart attack?
A heart attack is almost always caused by coronary artery disease. Over the years, fatty substances, cholesterol, and calcium accumulate on the inner wall of a coronary artery. This buildup is called plaque. When the plaque ruptures, the body’s clotting system reacts and forms a blood clot that can completely block the coronary artery.
The blockage prevents blood flow to the heart muscle, causing part of the muscle to begin to suffer damage. The sooner blood flow is restored, the less permanent harm occurs.
Symptoms of a heart attack
The most common symptom of a heart attack is severe, squeezing, or burning chest pain that may radiate to the left arm, neck, jaw, back, or upper abdomen. The pain may last several minutes or be continuous.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold sweat
- Weakness or feeling faint
- A vague sensation of pressure in the chest
- Restlessness or a sense of impending doom
Women, people with diabetes, and older adults may have atypical or milder symptoms — such as shortness of breath, nausea, or fatigue alone.
First aid and treatment
A heart attack is an emergency. If you suspect a heart attack, call the emergency number immediately.
In prehospital care, the patient receives pain medication and, if needed, thrombolytic therapy. Once in the hospital, the blocked coronary artery is usually opened with angioplasty. In some cases, bypass surgery is required.
After treatment, medication is started to prevent new blockages and reduce the workload of the heart. These medications often include a blood thinner, cholesterol‑lowering medication, a beta‑blocker, and an ACE inhibitor.
After a heart attack
Recovery from a heart attack is individual. Many people return to normal daily life and work quickly, especially when treatment has been initiated promptly. Follow‑up care often includes:
- Cardiac rehabilitation (e.g., exercise program, nutritional guidance)
- Lifestyle changes (quitting smoking, healthy diet, physical activity)
- Medication and regular monitoring
A heart attack increases the risk of future cardiac events, so prevention and follow‑up are especially important.
Connection to other heart diseases
A heart attack is a consequence of coronary artery disease. It can also lead to other heart problems, such as:
- Heart failure
- Arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation or ventricular arrhythmias)
A heart attack is not just a “single event” but a sign of a broader cardiovascular disease that requires comprehensive management.
When to see a doctor
Contact a doctor if:
- You experience chest pain during exertion or at rest
- You feel unexplained shortness of breath or severe fatigue
- Your heartbeat feels irregular
- You have risk factors for coronary artery disease (e.g., smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes)
The earlier treatment is started, the better the prognosis.
Would you like help assessing your heart risk or evaluating your symptoms? Book an appointment with a heart specialist — at the Heart Center, we are here to help you.