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A myocardial infarction, sometimes called a heart attack, is a serious medical emergency in which the blood supply to a part of the heart muscle is suddenly cut off, usually by a blood clot in a coronary artery. This blockage prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching heart tissue and leads to death or damage to the heart muscle cells involved. The most common cause is a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque inside the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis.
Typical symptoms of a heart attack include: Chest pain or pressure Shortness of breath Sweating Nausea Dizziness Pain that radiates to the arms, jaw, neck or back Some people, especially women, older people and those with diabetes, could have mild or unusual symptoms. “Treatment must be started right away; otherwise it can cause permanent damage to the heart and may result in heart failure or death.

The following are risk factors for myocardial infarction: smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, stress, high cholesterol, and lack of physical activity. Treatment may include medication, angioplasty and stenting or bypass surgery. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and improve long-term cardiac health.