Heart Attack Facts

A heart attack is when someone’s heart stops for some reason. There is some kind of blockage that exists within the arteries or such components. The highest percentage of heart attacks come from something blocking the coronary arteries. The arteries transport blood and oxygen to the heart, so if one of them is blocked, the heart can stop and die. Cholesterol is one of the leading culprits in causing heart attacks within people. It forms a hard substance that can build up in the arteries and cause the blockage. The blockage is what usually causes the heart attack.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

There are several symptoms that can indicate that someone is having a heart attack. One of the most common symptoms of a heart attack is a bad case of indigestion and an tightness in the chest. Other symptoms that may indicate a heart attack are fainting, a cough, anxiety, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, chest pains, sweating, and palpitations. There could also be a pain in the arm or back that gets worse during the course of the day. Some people have been known to have heart attacks without any symptoms. A symptomless heart attack is one of the most deadly types because the person does not get a chance to go to the doctor to get help.

What to do in Case of a Heart Attack

Anyone who feels as though he or she may be having a heart attack should not attempt to drive to the hospital. He or she should not get involved in any physical activity. The best thing to do in the case of a heart attack is to contact the ambulance. Sometimes aspirin can slow the progression of a heart enough long enough for a person to make it to the nearest hospital.