Millions of people experience heart attacks annually due to unhealthy lifestyles and unmanaged medical disorders. This complication occurs due to a blockage or a blood clot in your arteries, hindering blood from flowing to your heart. Although many people survive heart attacks, some end up with complications such as arrhythmias and pericarditis, which can affect their health. If you have an elevated risk of developing a heart attack Deerfield Beach due to underlying medical disorders, your provider can help you manage them to lower your risk.
Warning signs of a heart attack
A heart attack is a severe health emergency due to a blockage in your arteries preventing blood flow to your heart. Knowing the warning signs of a heart attack can help you seek immediate medical attention and prevent further complications. The symptoms may vary from one individual to the next, but there are common warnings that signify a heart attack. The signature symptom of a heart attack is chest pain that persists for more than a few minutes. The pain may feel like fullness, tightness, pressure, or squeezing in your chest. The pain may also spread to your neck and arms. You may also experience lightheadedness, nausea, shortness of breath, and profuse sweating. If you experience any of the warning signs, call 911 immediately.
Causes of a heart attack
A heart attack occurs due to a build-up of plaque in your arteries, blocking blood flow. These deposits can cause your coronary arteries to narrow and hinder blood flow, resulting in chest pain. The most prevalent trigger of heart attack is coronary artery disease. Factors that may elevate your chances of developing this disorder include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and a family history of coronary artery disease. A blood clot or coronary artery spasm can also block blood flow. Chronic diseases can also increase your risk of a heart attack.
Complications associated with a heart attack
A heart attack can result in significant complications if not treated promptly. Heart failure, in which your heart fails to pump enough blood to cater to your body’s needs, is the most common complication. This can result in fatigue, leg swelling, and shortness of breath. Another common complication is arrhythmias, which can cause fainting, dizziness and can be fatal if they cause sudden cardiac arrest. A heart attack can also damage your heart valves, which can cause a backward flow of blood or leakage. This can lead to chest pain and fatigue. You may also develop pericarditis, which is the inflammation of the pericardium, or a ventricular aneurysm which is the swelling of the wall of your heart.
Prevention tips
Heart attacks are often due to unhealthy lifestyle habits and unmanaged medical disorders. Your physician may recommend making a few lifestyle medications and managing underlying medical conditions like coronary artery disease. They may recommend regular exercise and a diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and fruits to manage your weight, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.
To learn more about heart attacks, call the Life Imaging Fla office or book your spot online.
