What is a heart attack?
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when a coronary artery becomes blocked, cutting off oxygen to part of the heart muscle. Without prompt treatment to restore blood flow, that part of the muscle begins to die — which is why speed of treatment directly affects long-term outcomes.
What are the warning signs of a heart attack?
- Chest pain, pressure, or tightness, often described as squeezing
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest pain
- Cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness
- In women: symptoms are sometimes more subtle — fatigue, nausea, or back pain without classic chest pain
What causes a heart attack?
Most heart attacks result from coronary artery disease — a buildup of plaque that ruptures and forms a clot blocking blood flow. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle.
How is a heart attack diagnosed?
An EKG is done immediately to look for characteristic changes, along with blood tests (cardiac enzymes) that confirm heart muscle damage. Imaging, such as a coronary angiogram, identifies the exact blockage.
What is the treatment for a heart attack?
- Emergency procedures to reopen the blocked artery — typically a catheterization with angioplasty and stent placement, done as fast as possible.
- Medications to dissolve clots, thin the blood, and reduce the heart’s workload during and after the event.
- Cardiac rehabilitation afterward, combining supervised exercise, diet changes, and medication to lower the risk of a second event.
Everything under one roof
Emergency EKG, cardiac catheterization lab, and intensive care are available around the clock at Hospital CMQ, so treatment starts without transfer delays.
Have questions about heart attack risk factors or want to schedule a cardiology check-up? Message us on WhatsApp.
When should you call for emergency help?
Immediately, if you or someone with you has chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes, especially combined with shortness of breath, cold sweat, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. Do not drive yourself — call for emergency transport so treatment can begin en route.
How can a heart attack be prevented?
- Manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar with regular check-ups.
- Don’t smoke, and get support to quit if you do.
- Stay physically active and maintain a heart-healthy diet.
- Know your family history and discuss it with your doctor, since it changes your risk profile.
Reviewed by: Dra. Itzel Aguayo, General Medicine, and Dr. David Hernández, Internal Medicine, Hospital CMQ. Review date: July 2026. References: American Heart Association, World Health Organization (WHO), Mayo Clinic.