Heart Attack: Warning Signs, Risk Factors, and Prevention

A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, happens when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Without quick treatment, heart muscle damage can be permanent — or even fatal. Recognizing the signs early and managing your risk can save lives.

What Causes a Heart Attack?

Most heart attacks occur when plaque (fat, cholesterol, and other substances) builds up inside the coronary arteries. If a plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form and block blood flow to the heart.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

Not everyone experiences heart attacks the same way, but common symptoms include:

• Chest discomfort – Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back

• Upper body discomfort – Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach

• Shortness of breath – With or without chest discomfort

• Other symptoms – Cold sweats, nausea, lightheadedness, unusual fatigue (especially common in women)

If you think you or someone else is having a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

Risk Factors for Heart Attack

Some risks can’t be changed — like age and family history — but many are manageable:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Smoking

• Diabetes

• Obesity

• Physical inactivity

• Unhealthy diet

• Stress

• Excessive alcohol consumption

Prevention Strategies

• Know your numbers – Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar in healthy ranges

• Eat heart-healthy foods – Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains

• Exercise regularly – Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week

• Quit smoking – This is one of the biggest steps you can take for heart health

• Manage stress – Use relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing

• Limit alcohol – Excessive drinking can raise blood pressure and triglycerides

How The Green Leaf Clinic Can Help

We offer heart health screenings, chronic disease management, and lifestyle coaching to help you lower your risk of heart attack. Our telehealth and in-person visits make it easy to stay on top of your heart health from the comfort of your home.

Bottom Line:

A heart attack can happen suddenly, but it’s often the result of years of underlying heart disease. By knowing the warning signs, controlling your risk factors, and making heart-healthy choices, you can protect your heart for years to come.