Finding a specialist is the first step to treatment.
If this is an emergency, call 911.
Heart attacks occur when the artery sending blood and oxygen to the heart is suddenly blocked by plaque, a fatty, cholesterol deposit that builds up over time. In some cases, plaque can rupture, causing a blood clot that can also lead to a heart attack.
If you or someone around you is experiencing a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Emergency medical technicians know what to do to save a life. Many ambulances are equipped with lifesaving machines and medications that can diagnose a heart attack and stimulate the heart if it stops. The majority of heart damage occurs within the first two hours of a blockage, so getting help quickly is critical.
A heart attack can come with warning signs like chest pain, arm pain, or even nausea. It can also occur suddenly and without warning. Recognizing the symptoms and getting help quickly are key to recovery. The earlier the heart attack is treated, the less damage there is.
Heart attack symptoms:
Other possible symptoms:
Women may have different symptoms:
In addition, men may feel pain and numbness in the left arm or the side of the chest, and women’s symptoms may be on the right side.
Having cardiovascular disease may increase the risk for Acute Coronary Syndrome or a heart attack.
Risk factors include:
Diabetes, metabolic disease, or other illnesses
For women, it can also include:
Taking birth control pills
The American College of Cardiology has a tool to estimate your level of risk for a heart attack. It’s quick, simple, and informative.
When someone's heart suddenly stops, CPR can keep blood and oxygen circulating to their vital organs until a paramedic or defibrillator arrives. Knowing hands-only CPR could help save a life in an emergency.
Two-step instructions:
For more information, visit the American Heart Association.
Whether you’re at risk for a heart attack or you’ve survived one, our team of experts is here to support you.