A heart attack is a critical medical emergency that occurs when the heart doesn’t receive an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood. This insufficiency can cause damage or death to the heart muscle. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, and discomfort in other upper body areas. Immediate medical attention is crucial if you suspect you’re experiencing a heart attack.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that cardiovascular disease (CVD) ranks as the leading cause of death globally, responsible for over 17.9 million deaths each year. Among these, 7.4 million deaths are attributed to coronary artery disease, and more than 6 million to stroke. Additionally, it is estimated that over 20 million individuals suffer from heart attacks annually.
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that someone experiences a heart attack every 40 seconds, and someone dies from a heart attack approximately every minute. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), one in every four deaths in the US is due to a heart attack. Furthermore, the AHA estimates the total direct and indirect costs of cardiovascular disease in the country exceed $316 billion annually.
Overall, heart attacks are a significant cause of death and disability worldwide. Raising awareness and managing risk factors are critical to reducing the risk and mortality associated with this condition.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
The primary cause of a heart attack is a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart muscle. This blockage typically results from plaque buildup over time, which narrows the artery walls and restricts blood flow to the heart muscle.
Other risk factors for plaque buildup include:
- High cholesterol levels
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of cardiovascular disease or stroke
Certain medications, such as steroids, may also elevate your risk of experiencing a cardiac event like a myocardial infarction (MI).
It’s essential to recognize any symptoms associated with potential cardiac events, such as:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea/vomiting
- Sweating & lightheadedness
How to Respond to a Heart Attack
If you suspect that you or someone else is having a heart attack, it’s vital to immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
If you’re with someone having a heart attack, help them sit down and stay calm. If they are on any medications, ensure you bring them along to the hospital. If they are not allergic to aspirin, have them chew and swallow one while waiting for emergency assistance.
In the event of a heart attack, a doctor might perform an emergency procedure called angioplasty to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels.
Additionally, medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of a heart attack. These interventions include quitting smoking, regular physical activity, adopting a healthy diet, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels.