Symptoms of a Heart Attack

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is significantly reduced or blocked. The blockage usually occurs due to the accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the coronary arteries. Fat deposits containing cholesterol are called plaques, and the process of plaque formation is called atherosclerosis. Sometimes a plaque can rupture and form a blood clot, blocking blood flow. The lack of blood flow can damage or destroy a part of the heart muscle.

A heart attack is also referred to as a myocardial infarction.

Immediate treatment is necessary for a heart attack to prevent death. If you have been diagnosed with heart disease, it's essential to undergo regular check-ups and receive necessary treatment. Treatment in Switzerland at the best cardiology clinics is equipped with advanced infrastructure and high-tech equipment, and doctors use state-of-the-art experience and innovative methods for treating heart diseases.

A heart attack is life-threatening. If you experience any of the symptoms described below, it is crucial to call for emergency help immediately.

What are the symptoms of a heart attack?

The symptoms of a heart attack can vary, but the most common signs of a heart attack include:

• Chest pain or discomfort that occurs suddenly and does not go away. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest. It can be similar to indigestion or heartburn.
• Pain that may radiate to the left or right arm or spread to the neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
• Nausea, sweating, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Other less common symptoms may include:

• Sudden feelings of anxiety, which may resemble a panic attack.
• Excessive coughing or wheezing due to fluid buildup in the lungs.
• The level of pain can vary from person to person. Some people may experience intense chest pain or tightness, while others may feel discomfort or a pain similar to indigestion.

The symptoms of a heart attack can persist for several days or may occur suddenly and unexpectedly.

 "Silent" Heart Attacks and Diabetes

People with diabetes can develop nerve damage (neuropathy). If the nerves supplying your heart are damaged, you may not feel the typical pain if your heart muscle lacks oxygen. If you live with diabetes, you should rely on other warning signs, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Sudden nausea
• Persistently high blood glucose levels that seem unexplained

Risk Factors

Risk factors for a heart attack include:

• Age: Men aged 45 and older and women aged 55 and older are more prone to heart attacks than younger individuals.
• Smoking: This includes both active smoking and prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke. If you smoke, quit.
• High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage arteries leading to the heart. High blood pressure that arises from other conditions such as . Smoking, high cholesterol, or diabetes further increases the risk.
• High cholesterol or triglyceride levels: High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, known as "bad" cholesterol, are likely to narrow arteries. High levels of certain blood fats called triglycerides also raise the risk of a heart attack. The risk can be reduced if high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol, is within normal range.
• ObesityObesity is associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, high triglyceride levels, and low HDL cholesterol.
• Diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin deficiency or ineffective use increase the risk of a heart attack.
• Metabolic syndrome:This combination of factors, including an enlarged waistline (central obesity), high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, and high blood sugar, doubles the risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to not having it.
• Family history of heart attacks: If a sibling, parent, or grandparent had a heart attack before the age of 55 for men or 65 for women, you may be at increased risk.
• Lack of physical activity: Inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle is associated with a higher risk of heart attacks. Regular physical activity improves heart health.
• Unhealthy diet: A diet high in sugar, animal fats, processed foods, trans fats, and salt increases the risk of heart attacks. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber, and healthy fats is recommended.
• Stress: Emotional stress, such as intense anger, can increase the risk of a heart attack.
• Illicit drug use: Cocaine and amphetamines are stimulants that can cause spasms in the coronary arteries, leading to a heart attack.
• History of preeclampsia: This condition causes high blood pressure during pregnancy and increases the lifelong risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Autoimmune conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus may raise the risk of a heart attack.