What causes a heart attack?
Jul 13, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xin
Introduction
1. Coronary atherosclerosis: due to factors such as unhealthy dietary habits, the blood viscosity in the coronary arteries—vessels supplying blood to the heart—increases, leading to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques that adhere to the vessel walls.
2. Non-atherosclerotic causes: including coronary artery embolism, aortic dissection involving the coronary artery ostia, coronary arteritis, and congenital coronary artery anomalies, which can lead to myocardial infarction.
Under normal circumstances, myocardial infarction (commonly known as heart attack) may be caused by various factors including age and gender, unhealthy lifestyle habits, coronary artery spasm, coronary atherosclerosis, and hypertension. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician.
1. Age and Gender
As people age, the risk of arterial hardening increases, thereby raising the likelihood of myocardial infarction. Men are more prone to heart attacks than women, especially before women reach menopause. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, control blood pressure and lipid levels, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and engage in moderate physical activity.
2. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits
Unhealthy habits such as smoking, high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly increase the risk of myocardial infarction. A light and balanced diet should be maintained, spicy and irritating foods should be avoided, and regular physical exercise is encouraged.
3. Coronary Artery Spasm
Coronary artery spasm may be triggered by genetic or psychological factors. Sudden constriction of the coronary arteries reduces blood flow, leading to myocardial ischemia and potentially causing myocardial infarction. Symptoms may include severe chest pain and arrhythmias. Medications such as metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets, nitroglycerin sublingual tablets, and nifedipine controlled-release tablets may be taken as prescribed by a doctor to relieve symptoms.
4. Coronary Atherosclerosis
Coronary atherosclerosis is generally caused by factors such as aging and genetics. Lipid deposits form plaques beneath the arterial lining; when these plaques rupture, they can trigger thrombosis that blocks the coronary arteries, resulting in myocardial ischemia and ultimately myocardial infarction. Symptoms may also include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and sweating. Treatment may include medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets, and clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets, taken under a doctor’s supervision.
5. Hypertension
Hypertension is primarily caused by factors such as obesity and dietary habits. Chronic high blood pressure places increased strain on the heart and blood vessels, accelerating arterial wall hardening and narrowing, thus increasing the risk of myocardial infarction. Common accompanying symptoms include chest tightness and palpitations. Medications such as nifedipine sustained-release tablets, amlodipine besylate tablets, and metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets may be used for treatment under medical guidance.
In daily life, it is essential to develop healthy habits, maintain a light diet, and engage in appropriate physical activity.
