Heart Attack
Caused when our heart cells die from a lack of oxygen, a heart attack requires immediate medical attention to prevent severe heart damage and death.
The leading cause of death among Americans, a heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction (MI), often results from coronary artery disease, the most common form of heart disease to affect adults.
Coronary artery disease, which can develop over years, is caused when a fatty substance called plaque builds up in the arteries and restricts the supply of blood and oxygen to our hearts. The plaque can eventually cause a blood clot to form on its surface, which can completely block the flow of oxygenated blood to our hearts. If blood flow isn’t restored quickly, the heart muscle begins to die.
See your doctor immediately if you feel pressure or a squeezing sensation in your chest, neck, jaw, shoulders, back or arms, especially if it’s accompanied by sweating, nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath.
Recently Answered
- Q What causes a heart attack?
-
Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyExcessive plaque buildup can result in dangerously narrowed arteries. In the case of a heart attack, your coronary artery becomes completely blocked, cutting off the oxygen that your heart muscle needs, with possibly fatal results. Weight loss lowers... Full Answer
18 Answers
A
- Q As a woman, what should I do if I think I'm having a heart attack?
-
Is it heartburn? A pulled muscle? Fatigue? Just what is that pain and what does it mean? It’s important for women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, but even more important, don’t wait for the pain to pass. Seek help.... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are the symptoms of a heart attack in women?
-
Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyWatch this video to learn more from Dr. Mehmet Oz about heart disease. Full Answer
9 Answers
A
- Q What is a heart attack?
-
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is interrupted or reduced by blockage in the coronary artery. Without a constant blood supply, part of the heart can be injured and begin to die from not getting enough oxygen. A heart attack requires... Full Answer
20 Answers
A
- Q What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
-
Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyThe symptoms of a heart attack are: Heavy feeling in the chest Pain in jaw, arm, or upper back Shortness of breath Nausea Heat or Sweating Indigestion/heartburn Unusual fatigue Sleep disturbance Anxiety Watch the video to find out from Dr. Oz about all... Full Answer
30 Answers
A
- Q How can taking baby aspirin help prevent a heart attack?
-
Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyHeart disease ranks as the leading cause of death. To help prevent a heart attack, get into the habit of taking two baby aspirin (81mg each) before bed. Here's why: In the morning, your blood is stickier and moves at its slowest pace. This makes... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are some complications following a heart attack?
-
Complications of a heart attack include the following: The lack of blood flow to the heart can lead to irreversible damage to the heart muscle. Invasive surgery may be required (coronary artery bypass graft surgery or CABG). Death that occurs... Full Answer
2 Answers
A
- Q What should I do if I think I may be having a heart attack?
-
If you feel pressure, discomfort or pain in the center of your chest or that spreads to your arm, neck or jaw, or a crushing or squeezing sensation with shortness of breath, tiredness or upset stomach, you could be experiencing a heart attack.... Full Answer
3 Answers
A
- Q When should I seek immediate help if I have chest pain?
-
There are many causes of chest pain. These include problems with the heart, lungs, and bones and muscles of the chest. If there is any concern that chest pain may be related to the heart, you should seek immediate medical attention. Signs of a... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q How can I survive a heart attack?
-
First do not be in denial about your symptoms—If you are having any signs or symptoms of a heart attack go to the emergency department –by ambulance, do not drive yourself! So many people come to the emergency department after the damage has... Full Answer
3 Answers
A
