Understanding Heart Attacks: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

Heart attacks are a serious health concern, characterised by a sudden blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle. This interruption of oxygen supply can lead to significant damage or even be fatal if not addressed promptly. Here’s what you need to know about heart attacks, including their causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies.

What Causes a Heart Attack?

The leading cause of heart attacks is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when fatty deposits, known as plaque, accumulate in the arteries supplying blood to the heart. Over time, this plaque can harden or rupture, leading to the formation of a blood clot. If this clot obstructs the artery, it prevents blood from reaching the heart muscle, resulting in a heart attack.

Several factors can increase the risk of a heart attack:

• High Blood Pressure: Exerts extra pressure on the heart.

• High Cholesterol: Contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries.

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage arterial walls.

• Smoking: Damages arteries and reduces oxygen in the blood.

• Obesity: Extra weight adds stress to the heart.

Recognising the Symptoms

Identifying the symptoms of a heart attack is crucial for timely intervention. Common signs include:

• Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often described as pressure, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest.

• Shortness of Breath: A sensation of not being able to breathe properly.

• Pain in Other Areas: Discomfort might spread to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

• Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling nauseous or sick to the stomach.

• Sweating: Experiencing cold sweats.

• Lightheadedness: Feeling dizzy or faint.

• Extreme Tiredness: Unexplained fatigue.

Preventing a Heart Attack

Reducing the risk of a heart attack involves adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

• Quit Smoking: Stopping smoking greatly benefits heart health.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing excess weight can decrease your risk.

• Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

• Get Regular Check-Ups: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels with routine health check-ups.

By understanding the causes and symptoms of heart attacks and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and promote overall heart health.