What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
Common signs of a heart attack include:
- Pain or discomfort in the chest
- Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or light-headedness
- Feeling cold sweat
What causes a heart attack?
A heart attack is often caused by a condition called coronary artery disease, where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow or blocked. This can happen due to a build-up of fat and cholesterol in the arteries.
How common are heart attacks?
Heart attacks are relatively common and can happen to anyone, but they are more frequently seen in older adults and those with certain risk factors.
Who is more likely to have a heart attack?
Certain factors can increase the risk of having a heart attack, such as:
- Older age
- Smokers
- People with a family history of heart disease
- Those who have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- People who are overweight or inactive
- Those with diabetes
What should I do if I think I’m having a heart attack?
Treatment for a heart attack usually involves going to the hospital right away. Doctors may use medications to help dissolve blood clots or perform procedures to open blocked arteries.
What’s the outlook for a heart attack?
The outlook after a heart attack often depends on how quickly a person receives treatment and their overall health. Many people can recover well with the right care and lifestyle changes.
Final thoughts
Heart attacks are serious but can often be managed with timely treatment. If you are concerned about your heart health, please speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
