What exactly is a heart attack?

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart suddenly becomes blocked, depriving the heart muscle of blood and causing permanent damage to the muscle.

 What usually causes this blockage?

Most heart attacks occur due to rupture of a cholesterol-rich plaque inside a coronary artery, followed by the formation of a blood clot.

What are the coronary arteries?

Coronary arteries are the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle.

Why does plaque form in arteries?

Plaque develops gradually due to High cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, stress, and lack of exercise

What happens inside the heart during a heart attack?

When blood flow stops, the affected heart muscle starts losing oxygen and begins to die within minutes.

 Why is immediate treatment so important?

“Time is muscle.” The longer the blockage remains, the greater the permanent damage to the heart.

Why do some healthy people suddenly get heart attacks?

Heart disease can remain hidden for years. A plaque may suddenly rupture even in people who appear outwardly healthy.

What happens to the heartbeat during a heart attack?

The electrical system of the heart may become unstable, causing dangerous arrhythmias that can lead to sudden death.

What tests help diagnose a heart attack?

ECG, Troponin blood test, Echocardiography, Coronary angiography

What is angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a procedure in which doctors open the blocked artery using a balloon and usually place a stent to restore blood flow.

Can the heart muscle recover after a heart attack?

If treated early, some of the heart muscle can recover. Delayed treatment may cause permanent damage and heart failure.

How can heart attacks be prevented?

Control BP, diabetes, and cholesterol. Stop smoking. Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, sleep adequately, and reduce stress

What is the most important message about heart attacks?

Never ignore chest discomfort, sweating, or sudden breathlessness. Early medical attention can save both the heart muscle and life.

Author: Dr Jay Deshmukh

Dr Jay Deshmukh is Chief Physician and Director, Sunflower Hospital, Nagpur Honorary Physician to Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and PondicherryCentral. Dr Jay Deshmukh is an M.B.B.S., M.C.P.S., F.C.P.S., M.N.A.M.S., MD From Internal Medicine – Bombay and New Delhi.