What Causes a Heart Attack?

Fatty deposits can build inside the artery wall and narrow the passage. If the surface of a deposit breaks, a clot may form over it and restrict blood flow. High cholesterol, hypertension, nicotine exposure and type 2 diabetes can damage or strain blood vessels and make this process more likely. Less common causes include a temporary artery spasm, a tear in an artery, or a severe imbalance between the heart's oxygen needs and its blood supply. A heart attack is different from cardiac arrest: the former is a circulation problem, while the latter is an electrical failure that stops effective pumping.

Arrange medical review for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, smoking or nicotine use, and family history. Take prescribed medicines as directed and discuss side effects before stopping them. Regular movement, a balanced eating pattern and avoiding tobacco can support cardiovascular health. A clinician can decide whether testing or treatment is suitable for your personal risk factors.

Call emergency services immediately for pressure, squeezing or pain in the chest that lasts or returns, especially with breathlessness, sweating, nausea, faintness or pain spreading to the arm, back, neck or jaw. Symptoms can be less typical in some people. Do not drive yourself or wait for an appointment when a heart attack is possible.

Which risk factors can we measure or change? What blood pressure, cholesterol or glucose checks do I need? Which symptoms should prompt an emergency call?