What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack (also called myocardial infarction) happens when there is a complete blockage of a coronary artery, which does not allow blood flow to that area of the heart muscle. If this occurs for a prolonged period of time damage is done to the heart muscle.

Plaque may tear and completely block the artery, or a blood clot may plug the narrow opening between the plaque-filled walls. When this happens, blood flow stops. Without oxygen-rich blood, part of the heart muscle is damaged and stops working. This is a heart attack (myocardial infarction). You may feel crushing pressure or pain in or around your chest. 

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The symptoms of a heart attack may be similar to that of angina, but are usually more severe and may include sweating, nausea and shortness of breath with a heart attack. These symptoms are not relieved with rest or nitro and require urgent medical attention.

Women may experience different heart attack symptoms than men. They may not experience chest pain, but instead feel pain in the upper abdomen and may experience shortness of breath, weakness and unusual fatigue.

Heart muscle damage from a heart attack is permanent. The heart cannot grow new muscle. A heart attack can result in disability or even death depending on how much and which part of the heart muscle is damaged.

Quick action is very important if you are having a heart attack. Treatments can often be given to limit the damage to the heart — if you get medical attention promptly.

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Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)