Heart Attack

Year after year, heart attack is one of the top causes of death in the United States. While the damage it causes seems to come out of nowhere, heart attacks result from a combination of lifestyle choices and genetics. Though genetics certainly play a role in your risk, your likelihood of suffering a heart attack increases if you smoke, are overweight, eat an unhealthy diet and don’t get sufficient exercise.

A heart attack occurs when plaque (waxy, fatty substance) builds up in the arteries so that blood cannot pass through. This stops blood from reaching the heart, which results in a variety of symptoms, including:

• Chest pain and discomfort
• Stomach pain or a feeling like heartburn
• Pain in your upper body, such as the jaw, teeth, neck, back, arms or shoulders
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Feeling lightheaded
• Anxiety

Heart attack symptoms can vary in intensity and are often different for men and women. It’s important to know what to watch for. If you experience these symptoms and think you are having a heart attack, seek immediate emergency medical help by dialing 911.

Since heart attacks can be caused by several different things, it’s important to have a specialist evaluate your individual situation. Our cardiologists can determine your best treatment options.

To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist, call (505) 426-3613. Appointments available Mondays and Fridays.