A heart attack, known medically as a myocardial infarction (MI) occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is suddenly blocked. Without prompt treatment, the affected tissue can be permanently damaged. Understanding the warning signs and knowing what to do can save your life or the life of someone around you.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
Most heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition in which fatty deposits called plaques build up inside the coronary arteries – the blood vessels that supply the heart. When a plaque ruptures, a blood clot forms rapidly at the site, blocking blood flow to part of the heart muscle.
Risk factors that contribute to this process include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and a family history of heart disease.
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Symptoms vary between individuals and can range from sudden and severe to slow and subtle. Not everyone experiences the “classic” chest pain; this is particularly true for women, older adults, and people with diabetes.
Common Symptoms
- Chest discomfort – pressure, tightness, squeezing, heaviness, or pain in the centre or left side of the chest, lasting more than a few minutes or coming and going
- Pain or discomfort spreading to the shoulder, arm (especially the left), neck, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- Cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness
Less Recognised Symptoms
- Indigestion-like discomfort or a burning sensation in the chest
- Unexplained anxiety or a sense of impending doom
- Sudden dizziness or fainting
- Jaw, tooth, or arm ache with no obvious cause
Important: Symptoms may be mild or mistaken for something less serious, such as heartburn or muscle strain. When in doubt, seek emergency help immediately.
What to Do in an Emergency
If you or someone nearby experiences symptoms that may indicate a heart attack:
- Call Triple Zero (000) immediately – do not drive yourself to hospital
- Chew one regular aspirin (300 mg) if available and you are not allergic, unless advised otherwise by your doctor
- Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and try to remain calm
- Loosen any tight clothing
- If the person becomes unconscious and is not breathing normally, begin CPR if you are trained to do so
Time matters: The sooner a blocked artery is reopened through clot-dissolving medication or a procedure called angioplasty, the less damage occurs to the heart muscle. Every minute counts.
Recovery After a Heart Attack
Recovery is a gradual process that usually involves cardiac rehabilitation, medication, and lifestyle changes. Most people are able to return to normal activities within weeks to months, depending on the extent of heart muscle damage. Your cardiologist will develop an individualised management plan, which may include:
- Medications to prevent further clots, lower blood pressure, and protect the heart
- A supervised cardiac rehabilitation programme
- Dietary changes, physical activity, and smoking cessation support
- Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring
Reducing Your Risk
Many heart attacks are preventable. The most effective steps you can take include:
- Not smoking or quitting if you currently smoke
- Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Being physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Attending regular check-ups with your doctor or cardiologist