Heart Attack: Symptoms and Treatment

A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart muscle becomes blocked, usually due to a blood clot, causing the affected tissue to begin dying from lack of oxygen. In many cases, the symptoms develop quietly and are mistaken for common problems such as indigestion or tiredness. Because of this, people often wait longer than they should before seeking medical care. Knowing how a heart attack begins, what symptoms may appear, can help reduce delay in seeking care. This blog covers the key symptoms of a heart attack and the treatment approaches used to manage the condition and support recovery.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack happens due to buildup of fatty deposits, known as plaque, inside the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. When a plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form around it, blocking the artery and preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle.

Without adequate oxygen, the affected portion of the heart muscle begins to suffer damage. The longer the blockage remains, the greater the injury to the heart tissue. In some cases, the damage can be permanent and affect how well the heart pumps blood. This process explains why a heart attack is considered a medical emergency.

How is a Heart Attack Different from Cardiac Arrest?

A heart attack and cardiac arrest are often confused, but they are two different medical conditions. In some cases, a heart attack can trigger cardiac arrest.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually due to a narrowed or clogged coronary artery. The heart continues to beat, but the muscle begins to suffer damage because it does not receive enough oxygen.

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively. This is caused by an electrical problem in the heart that disrupts its rhythm, leading to a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other organs. A person experiencing cardiac arrest collapses and becomes unresponsive within seconds.

What Causes a Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked, most often due to problems affecting the coronary arteries. This blockage usually develops over time, though the final event may happen suddenly. The main causes and risk factors include:

• Coronary artery disease: Fatty deposits, known as plaque, build up inside the coronary arteries over many years. When a plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form and block blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Blood clot formation: Clots may develop at the site of a ruptured plaque or within already narrowed arteries. In rare cases, a clot can travel from another part of the body and lodge in a coronary artery.
• Coronary artery spasm: A sudden tightening of a coronary artery can temporarily reduce or stop blood flow. This can occur even without significant plaque buildup and may be linked to smoking, severe stress, or exposure to cold.
• High blood pressure: Long-term high blood pressure damages the inner lining of arteries, making them more prone to plaque buildup and narrowing.
• High cholesterol levels: Elevated cholesterol contributes to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, increasing the risk of blockage.
• Diabetes: Diabetes affects blood vessels and increases the tendency for blood clot formation, raising the risk of a heart attack.
• Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen levels in the blood, and accelerates the progression of coronary artery disease.
• Obesity and physical inactivity: Excess body weight and lack of regular physical activity increase strain on the heart and worsen other risk factors.
• Family history and age: A family history of heart disease and increasing age raise the likelihood of developing coronary artery disease and experiencing a heart attack.

These causes often act together, gradually increasing the risk over time. Addressing modifiable risk factors can help reduce the chances of a heart attack and support long-term heart health.

What are the Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack?

Heart attack symptoms can vary from person to person. Some symptoms appear suddenly, whereas others develop gradually. The most frequently reported symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort: A feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness in the centre or left side of the chest. The discomfort may last for several minutes or come and go.
• Pain spreading to other areas: Discomfort may move from the chest to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, back, or upper stomach.
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing that may occur with or without chest discomfort.
• Cold sweat: Sudden sweating without an obvious reason, often accompanied by clamminess.
• Nausea or vomiting: A sick feeling in the stomach, which may be mistaken for indigestion.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: A sensation of faintness or weakness, sometimes linked to a drop in blood pressure.
• Unusual fatigue: Extreme tiredness that feels different from normal exhaustion and may appear without physical effort.

How is a Heart Attack Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a heart attack quickly is essential to limit damage to the heart muscle. Here are the main approaches to diagnosing a heart attack:

Clinical Assessment and Medical History

Diagnosis begins with a detailed assessment of symptoms, including chest discomfort, breathlessness, or other warning signs. A doctor reviews medical history, risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes, and performs a physical examination to check heart rate, blood pressure, and signs of reduced circulation.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart. It helps identify changes in heart rhythm or patterns that suggest damage to the heart muscle. This test is often done immediately on arrival at a hospital, as it provides quick and valuable information.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are used to detect markers released into the bloodstream when heart muscle cells are damaged. Rising levels of these markers over time help confirm a heart attack and indicate the extent of injury.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests provide a clearer view of the heart’s structure and function. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to assess heart movement and pumping ability. In some cases, imaging helps identify areas of the heart that are not receiving enough blood.

Coronary Angiography

Coronary angiography is used to locate blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. A special dye is injected into the blood vessels, allowing doctors to see blood flow through the heart on imaging screens. This test helps guide decisions about further treatment or procedures.

Additional Tests

Other tests may be performed once the patient is stable. These can include stress testing or advanced imaging to assess overall heart function and plan long-term care.

What are the Treatment Options for a Heart Attack?

Treating a heart attack focuses on restoring blood flow to the heart, limiting further damage, and preventing complications. The treatment approach depends on how quickly care is received and the severity of the blockage. Here are the main treatment options for a heart attack.

Emergency Care

Treatment starts as soon as a heart attack is suspected. The patient is closely monitored, and steps are taken to stabilise heart rhythm, blood pressure, and breathing. Early care focuses on reducing the workload on the heart and preventing the condition from worsening during the critical initial hours.

Medications

Medicines are central to heart attack treatment. They help improve blood flow, prevent new clots from forming, and reduce stress on the heart. Some medications act quickly to manage the immediate event, while others are prescribed for long-term use to support recovery and lower the risk of another heart attack. Medication plans are adjusted based on individual response and existing health conditions.

Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen support may be provided when blood oxygen levels are low. This ensures that the heart muscle and vital organs receive enough oxygen, especially during the early stages of treatment when the heart is under strain.

Pain and Symptom Control

Chest discomfort, breathlessness, and anxiety are addressed early in treatment. Managing pain and discomfort helps reduce stress-related strain on the heart and improves overall stability during recovery.

Continuous Monitoring

Heart rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are monitored throughout the hospital stay. This allows doctors to detect complications early, such as abnormal heart rhythms or changes in heart function, and respond promptly.

Managing Underlying Conditions

Treatment also includes addressing conditions that contribute to heart disease. High blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels are carefully managed, as controlling these factors plays an important role in recovery and long-term heart health.

What Procedures are Used to Treat a Heart Attack?

When a heart attack is caused by a blocked coronary artery, procedures are often needed to restore blood flow quickly and reduce damage to the heart muscle. Here are the main procedures used to treat a heart attack:

Angioplasty and Stenting

Angioplasty is a procedure that opens narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. A thin tube with a small balloon is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to widen it. In most cases, a stent (a small mesh tube) is placed in the artery to keep it open and maintain blood flow. This procedure is often performed immediately during a heart attack to restore circulation as quickly as possible.

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG)

Bypass surgery is considered when arteries are severely blocked or multiple vessels are affected. During this procedure, a surgeon creates a new route for blood to flow to the heart by using a healthy blood vessel taken from another part of the body. This allows oxygen-rich blood to bypass the blocked artery, improving heart function and reducing symptoms.

Other Interventions

In certain situations, additional procedures may be used to manage complications of a heart attack, such as repairing damaged heart valves or removing blood clots. The choice of procedure depends on the patient’s overall health, the location of the blockage, and the severity of heart damage.

How Can Heart Attacks Be Prevented?

Preventing a heart attack involves managing risk factors and adopting heart-healthy habits. Small but consistent lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the likelihood of a heart attack. Key prevention tips include:

• Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit intake of processed foods, sugar, and excessive salt.
• Stay physically active: Regular exercise strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation, and helps control weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
• Manage blood pressure: Keep blood pressure within a healthy range through lifestyle changes and medications if prescribed.
• Control cholesterol and blood sugar: Regularly monitor cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Take steps to manage high cholesterol or diabetes with diet, exercise, and medications if needed.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases heart attack risk. Limiting alcohol intake helps maintain heart health.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight reduces strain on the heart and lowers the risk of related conditions.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can affect heart health. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies can help reduce stress levels.
• Regular health check-ups: Routine medical check-ups help detect risk factors early, allowing timely management to prevent heart attacks.

These measures, when combined, create a strong defence against heart disease and support long-term heart health.

Consult a Cardiologist at Graphic Era Hospital

A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention and expert care. If you experience any warning signs such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, do not delay seeking medical help. Time is critical when it comes to protecting your heart muscle and preventing long-term damage. At Graphic Era Hospital, our experienced team of cardiologists offers comprehensive cardiac care, from routine health screenings and diagnostic tests to advanced treatment procedures and prevention plans. Schedule a consultation with our cardiologists at Graphic Era Hospital by calling 1800 889 7351 and ensure your heart receives the care it deserves.