Heart Attack
Heart Attack
A Heart Attack (pronounced: /hɑːrt əˈtæk/), also known as a myocardial infarction (pronounced: /maɪˌoʊkɑːrdiəl ɪnˈfɑːrkʃən/), is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the heart is suddenly blocked, usually by a blood clot[1].
Etymology
The term "heart attack" is derived from the Old English heorte (heart) and the Latin attacca (to attack). The medical term "myocardial infarction" is derived from the Greek myo (muscle), kardia (heart), and the Latin infarctus (stuffed into).
Symptoms
Symptoms of a heart attack can include chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and lightheadedness. The severity, duration, and type of heart attack symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the heart attack.
Causes
Heart attacks are usually caused by coronary heart disease[2], a condition in which the coronary arteries (the major blood vessels that supply the heart with blood) become clogged with deposits of cholesterol[3]. If a blood clot forms, it can block the blood supply to the heart, causing a heart attack.
Treatment
Treatment for a heart attack can include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes. The goal of treatment is to restore blood flow to the heart as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to the heart muscle.
Related Terms
- Angina: Chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries.
- Cardiac arrest: A sudden loss of blood flow resulting from the failure of the heart to pump effectively.
- Coronary artery disease: A disease that involves the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Heart Attack
- Wikipedia's article - Heart Attack
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