What are Heart Attack?

A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction (MI), occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen and nutrients. This blockage is usually caused by the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis) in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. When the blood flow is reduced or completely blocked, the affected part of the heart muscle begins to die, leading to a heart attack.

Common Heart Attack

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Pressure, tightness, squeezing, or pain in the chest that may radiate to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing, especially with exertion or at rest.

Nausea or Indigestion

Feeling of nausea, indigestion, or discomfort in the upper abdomen.

Cold Sweat

Profuse sweating, often accompanied by clammy skin.

Fatigue

Sudden onset of fatigue, weakness, or lightheadedness.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Consult?​

If you or someone else experiences symptoms suggestive of a heart attack, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.

Schedule an appointment with emergency department Today

Consult a cardiac care expert immediately if you experience​​

Common FAQs About Heart Attacks

Q: What causes a heart attack?

A: A heart attack is typically caused by the blockage of one or more coronary arteries due to the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis) or the formation of a blood clot (thrombosis). Risk factors for heart attack include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of heart disease.

Q: How is a heart attack diagnosed?

A: Diagnostic tests for a heart attack may include an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), blood tests (such as troponin levels), echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), cardiac catheterization, or coronary angiography to evaluate the extent and severity of heart damage.

Q: What is the treatment for a heart attack?

A: Treatment for a heart attack aims to restore blood flow to the blocked artery and minimize damage to the heart muscle. It may include medications (such as aspirin, nitroglycerin, clot-busting drugs, or beta-blockers), cardiac procedures (such as angioplasty and stenting or coronary artery bypass surgery), and lifestyle modifications (such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation).

Q: Can heart attacks be prevented?

A: While not all heart attacks can be prevented, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity), quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and seeking regular medical care can help reduce the risk of heart attack.