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For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-855-332-8474.
Heart attacks, also called myocardial infarctions, are the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States. A heart attack occurs when blood flow in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, is cut off or severely reduced. In most cases, heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), where cholesterol, fat, or some other substance creates a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. The buildup of plaque is called atherosclerosis.
Heart attack symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may have very few symptoms or may not experience any symptoms - this is called a silent heart attack.
Are You at Risk for Heart Disease?
Are You at Risk for Heart Disease?
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As with men, the most common heart attack symptom in women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have silent heart attacks or experience less common and less intense symptoms that can go ignored.
Some of the other common heart attack symptoms in women include:
The risk of heart attack increases in women after menopause, due to decreasing estrogen levels.
If you or someone you are with experiences any of these heart attack symptoms, immediately call 911 for emergency medical services (EMS) - even if you are unsure whether or not it is a heart attack. Some people wait too long because they don’t recognize all the signs and symptoms. Receiving treatment as quickly as possible when you are suffering a heart attack is essential, even if your symptoms do not seem serious. Getting help right away can save a life.
It is recommended that you wait for EMS workers to arrive rather than having someone drive you to the hospital, as EMS is trained to provide proper treatment and rapid transport to the hospital.
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked by a clot or plaque buildup in the arteries. When blood flow is blocked, the muscle begins to die. This requires immediate medical attention to relieve the blockage and restore oxygen flow to the heart.
Less commonly, a severe spasm of the coronary artery can also stop blood flow to the heart muscle.
Some risk factors that make you more likely to develop heart disease are not preventable, such as:
There are some major risk factors that you can reduce or prevent altogether, like:
Positive lifestyle changes can go a long way in reducing your risk for heart attack. Quitting smoking and moderating your alcohol intake are essential to lowering your risk, as is getting regular physical activity. Good nutrition is another important step; choose nutrient-rich foods and make sure your diet has plenty of fruits and vegetables.
The specific treatment recommended by your provider depends on the type of heart attack suffered. You may have suffered a complete or partial blockage, and appropriate treatments differ for a STEMI (ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction) versus a non-STEMI attack.
Much like the treatment, recovery from a heart attack depends on the severity of your condition and your overall medical situation. After the event, you will likely be advised to stay in the hospital for 3 to 5 days, or until your condition stabilizes.
It’s important to work with a trusted medical provider and follow their instructions for a successful recovery. Most hospitals offer a cardiac rehabilitation program designed to help you resume your life safely.