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CardiovascularICD-10: I21About 805,000 Americans have a heart attack each year

Heart Attack

Also known as: Myocardial Infarction, MI, Acute Coronary Syndrome

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a blood clot in a coronary artery narrowed by atherosclerosis. Without prompt treatment, heart tissue begins to die. Rapid treatment with medications and procedures to restore blood flow can save heart muscle and lives.

Symptoms

Chest pain or pressure (squeezing or fullness)
Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, back, or stomach
Shortness of breath
Cold sweat and clammy skin
Nausea or vomiting
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Unusual fatigue, sometimes for days before the event
Sense of impending doom

Causes

  • Coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis)
  • Rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque leading to blood clot formation
  • Coronary artery spasm (Prinzmetal angina)
  • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD)

Risk Factors

  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol (LDL) and low HDL
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
  • Family history of premature heart disease

Diagnosis

  • ECG showing ST-segment changes
  • Blood tests for cardiac troponin
  • Echocardiogram to assess heart wall motion
  • Coronary angiography to visualize blocked arteries

Treatment

  • Emergency PCI (angioplasty with stent)
  • Thrombolytic medications if PCI is not immediately available
  • Aspirin and dual antiplatelet therapy
  • Coronary artery bypass surgery for multivessel disease
  • Cardiac rehabilitation program
  • Long-term medications: statins, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors

Prevention

  • Don't smoke or use tobacco products
  • Control blood pressure and cholesterol
  • Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
  • Maintain a heart-healthy diet
  • Manage diabetes and maintain a healthy weight

When to See a Doctor

  • Call 911 immediately for chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
  • Chest pain occurs with shortness of breath, sweating, or radiating pain
  • You have known heart disease and experience new or worsening symptoms
  • You experience unexplained fatigue or nausea with exertion

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

High Blood Pressure

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Heart Failure

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High Cholesterol

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.