Advertisement
Health TopicsHeart and Circulatory SystemHeart Attack
question

How does a heart attack affect the body?

Donna Hill Howes, RN
Donna Hill Howes, RN
Family Practitioner
answer

A heart attack affects the body by damaging the heart muscle. Without oxygen, the heart muscle begins to die and scar tissue forms there instead. The damage may lead to long-lasting problems. Complications after a heart attack include irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), heart rupture (myocardial rupture), heart failure, leaking heart valves, low blood pressure and swelling of the heart sac (pericarditis).

Continue Learning about Heart Attack

Can stress really cause a heart attack?
Can stress really cause a heart attack?
You see it in movies all the time: Someone gets upset, clutches his or her chest and collapses from a heart attack. Not only can stress cause a heart ...
Read More
How to recover from a heart attack
How to recover from a heart attack
The prospect of a heart attack is terrifying, but there’s good news: it’s possible to survive one. “But time is of the essence,” says Frederick Funke,...
Read More
How to avoid this unexpected side effect of a heart attack
How to avoid this unexpected side effect of a heart attack
A heart attack is a life-altering event. After one occurs, most patients know that their physical health will be affected, but they may not be aware j...
Read More
What is a "stuttering" heart attack?
What is a "stuttering" heart attack? Heart attacks happen when arteries become narrowed by a fatty s...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.