A heart attack occurs when one or more of the coronary arteries become blocked, depriving the heart muscle of the oxygen-rich blood it needs to survive. Without prompt medical treatment, a heart attack can cause serious damage to the heart muscle, and in some cases, death.
Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death around the world, accounting for nearly one in four deaths in the United States alone. While heart disease is commonly associated with old age, anyone can suffer from a heart attack, regardless of age or gender.
Although heart attacks are often unpredictable, there are certain risk factors that can increase your likelihood of experiencing one. These include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle. Many of these risk factors can be managed through lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, but sometimes medical intervention may be necessary to protect your heart health.
If you experience the signs and symptoms of a heart attack—including chest pain, difficulty breathing, and nausea or dizziness—it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. In the case of a suspected heart attack, call 911 or visit the emergency room as soon as possible.
Taking preventative measures to protect your heart health is the best way to avoid a heart attack. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting regular checkups from your doctor can go a long way towards keeping your heart healthy. By making small changes today, you can significantly reduce your risk for heart attack and other heart-related conditions.
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