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Heart Attack

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May 1, 2024 4 minute read

A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow decreases or stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle. The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and pain in the back, neck, jaw, or arms.

Causes of a Heart Attack

A heart attack is caused by a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood to the heart muscle. The blockage is usually caused by a buildup of plaque, which is made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances. Plaque can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart.

Risk Factors for a Heart Attack

There are a number of risk factors for a heart attack, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Age (over 45 for men, over 55 for women)
  • Male gender
  • African American race

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Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Heart Attack.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular medicine, including heart attacks. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it is essential reading for anyone who wants to learn more about heart attacks.
Provides a comprehensive overview of internal medicine, including heart attacks. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about internal medicine.
Provides a comprehensive overview of heart attacks, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it is packed with helpful information for both patients and their families.
Provides a detailed overview of myocardial infarction, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about heart attacks.
Provides a detailed overview of heart failure, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about heart failure.
Provides a comprehensive overview of heart health, including heart attacks. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about heart health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of interventional cardiology, including the treatment of heart attacks. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about interventional cardiology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of heart attack prevention. It covers topics such as risk factors, lifestyle changes, and medications.
Provides essential information for patients who have experienced a heart attack. It covers topics such as recovery, rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes.
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