To mark the 2024 World Heart Day, the World Health Organisation has shared a detailed guide outlining the typical warning signs of a heart attack.
- In a post shared on X on Sunday, WHO identified the following symptoms:
- Feeling faint or light-headed.
- Breaking into a cold sweat.
- Shortness of breath.
- Pain or discomfort in the centre of the chest.
- Discomfort in the arms, left shoulder, elbows, jaw, or back.
- Vomiting.
- Becoming pale.
A heart attack, medically referred to as a myocardial infraction, is a life-threatening condition in which the heart muscle begins to die due to insufficient blood flow. This medical emergency is typically caused by a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. If left untreated, a heart attack can lead to permanent damage to the heart and, in severe cases, death.
The Mayo Clinic, United States, revealed that when a heart attack strikes, blood flow to a part of the heart stops or is drastically reduced. This causes injury or even death to the affected portion of the heart muscle. Without blood, the muscle cells in that area begin to die, which can disrupt the heart’s ability to pump effectively. If the heart cannot pump blood to the rest of the body, the consequences can be fatal if not addressed promptly.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
Most heart attacks result from a blockage in one of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. This blockage often stems from plaque—a sticky substance that builds up on artery walls. This process, known as atherosclerosis, restricts blood flow, much like how grease clogs kitchen pipes.
When plaque buildup becomes severe, it leads to coronary artery disease, one of the most common causes of heart attacks.
In some cases, the plaque can rupture, causing a blood clot to form at the rupture site. If the clot blocks the artery, it cuts blood flow, triggering a heart attack.
Although rare, heart attacks can also occur without plaque rupture, accounting for about 5 per cent of cases. These may result from:
Coronary artery spasms.
Rare medical conditions that cause abnormal narrowing of the arteries.
Trauma to the coronary arteries.
Obstruction from a blood clot or air bubble.
Eating disorders, can damage the heart over time.
Anomalous coronary arteries (a congenital condition where coronary arteries are abnormally positioned).
Conditions such as low blood pressure, low oxygen levels, or an excessively fast heart rate.
A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that demands immediate attention. Recognising the symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care can save lives.
Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and regularly checking your heart health are key steps to preventing a heart attack.