Heart

“What is a Heart Attack?”

A heart attack, or Myocardial Infarction, is very simply put, death of heart muscle.  Many things can cause this problem to occur...

Risk Factors

1. Obesity
2. Diabetes
3. Smoking
4. Lack of exercise
5. High Cholesterol
6. Stressful lifestyle
7. Congenital defects

 
What does a heart attack feel like?
          
Denial keeps most people from seeking the immediate medical help they need.  Many people think that just because they are not having the “typical” symptoms that they can’t possibly be having a heart attack.  Before I give the list of signs and symptoms, please know that everyone presents differently.  In fact very little people present with the “textbook” signs and symptoms.  This is especially true of women.  The bottom line is you know your body best.  Your heart is important, if you are feeling different see a doctor immediately not next week!  It’s better to be safe then sorry.

Signs and Symptoms

• Chest pain (sharp, dull, squeezing, pressure, burning)
• Shortness of breath
• nausea/vomiting
• heartburn/ indigestion
• fatigue
• general weakness/ feeling run down
• abdominal pain
• back pain
• Jaw/neck/arm pain