Heart Attack Causes And Early Warning Signs

Heart attacks are primarily caused by ischemic heart disease, commonly known as coronary artery disease. This condition occurs when plaque builds up in the coronary arteries—blood vessels responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Over time, this buildup leads to the narrowing or complete blockage of the artery, preventing blood flow. When the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, it can lead to severe ischemia and ultimately result in a heart attack.

Understanding The Early Symptoms Of A Heart Attack

During the early stages of a heart attack, individuals may experience discomfort in the chest area. However, not all patients feel intense pain right away. Some may feel unusually restless, sweaty, or overwhelmed with a sense of fear or impending doom. These sensations can be subtle and are often mistaken for less serious conditions.

What Happens After The Initial Symptoms?

If the lack of blood flow continues without improvement, the heart muscle begins to accumulate lactic acid and other acidic byproducts due to oxygen deprivation. This buildup can stimulate the brain's pain centers, causing a sensation of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. The pain is often described as dull or heavy, though some individuals report sharp, stabbing discomfort—though this is less common in clinical cases.