A Myocardial Infarction or heart attack is most times caused by a blockage that stops blood flow to the heart. This blockage prevents the heart from receiving oxygen and the heart tissue begins to die. The longer the vessel stays blocked the more heart muscle dies and the result is permanent heart damage.
Warning signs:
Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It usually lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
Nausea/Vomiting, breaking out in a cold sweat, or lightheadedness
The heart attack symptoms in women can be different than men. If you or someone you are with experiences chest discomfort or any of the warning signs listed above, call 911 immediately.
American Heart Association. www.heart.org. July 1st, 2015- January 29th, 2021.