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What is a Heart Attack and How Can You Spot It?
Published: Feb 02, 2024
Heart attacks, or myocardial infarctions, are serious events that require immediate attention. Understanding the signs and symptoms can save lives.
Understanding Heart Attacks
A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, causing heart muscle damage. It is often due to a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, which form a plaque in the coronary arteries. This plaque can rupture, leading to a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to the heart.
The Role of Troponin
Troponin is a protein released when the heart muscle is damaged, making it a key biomarker for diagnosing heart attacks. Doctors look for a rise and fall in troponin levels to confirm a heart attack, using high-sensitivity assays for accurate results. This biomarker helps distinguish between different types of acute coronary syndromes.
Types of Heart Attacks
There are several types of heart attacks, each with different causes and characteristics. Type 1 is caused by a blockage in a coronary artery, typically due to plaque rupture. Type 2 involves an oxygen supply-demand mismatch, which can happen without any blockages. Recognizing the type is crucial for proper treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
A heart attack is a condition where heart muscle is damaged due to blocked blood flow.
Doctors use ECG changes and troponin levels to diagnose heart attacks.
Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and sometimes nausea.
Yes, especially in older individuals, diabetics, and women.
The Bottom Line
Recognizing and treating heart attacks promptly can save lives.
References
- Anderson JL, Morrow DA. Acute Myocardial Infarction. N Engl J Med 2017; 376:2053.
- Thygesen K, Alpert JS, Jaffe AS, et al. Fourth Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction (2018). J Am Coll Cardiol 2018; 72:2231.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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