It is important for everyone to understand what causes Heart Attack.
Most heart attacks occur as a result of coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is the buildup over time of a material called plaque on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. Eventually, a section of plaque can break open, causing a blood clot to form at the site. A heart attack occurs if the clot becomes large enough to cut off most or all of the blood flow through the artery.
The blocked blood flow prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the part of the heart muscle fed by the artery. The lack of oxygen damages the heart muscle. If the blockage isn’t treated quickly, the damaged heart muscle begins to die.
Heart attack also can occur due to problems with the very small, microscopic blood vessels of the heart. This condition is called microvascular disease. It’s believed to be more common in women & diabetics.
Another less common cause of heart attack is a severe spasm (tightening) of a coronary artery that cuts off blood flow through the artery. These spasms can occur in coronary arteries that don’t have CAD. It’s not always clear what causes a coronary artery spasm, but sometimes it can be related to Major Risk factors for heart attack that one can control (refer table below).
Certain risk factors make it more likely that you will develop coronary artery disease (CAD) and have a heart attack. Some risk factors for heart attack can be controlled, while others can’t.
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Major risk factors for Heart attack that One can control |
Healthy lifestyle choices to help prevent Heart Attack |
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Smoking/Tobacco |
No Smoking |
|
Hypertension |
Life Style Modifications |
| Diabetes |
Blood Pressure Monitoring, Blood Sugar Monitoring (if Diabetic) |
|
Abnormal lipids (Cholesterol, Triglycerides) |
Lipid Profile, Regular Check Ups, ECG |
| Family History of Ischemic Heart Disease |
Heart Healthy Diet |
|
Obesity |
Weight Reduction |
|
Lack of Exercise |
Regular Exercise |
| Mental Stress |
Stress Management, Stress Test |
Heart Attack |
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Heart Treatment |
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