A heart attack is a serious event where blood flow to a part of your heart is suddenly blocked, usually by a blood clot. This blockage prevents oxygen from reaching the heart muscle, and if left untreated, that muscle begins to die.
Think of it like a plant without water. Without a constant supply of blood (the water), the heart tissue begins to wither and become damaged.
**What's actually happening during that time?**
* **Blockage:** A plaque buildup in your arteries ruptures, forming a blood clot.
* **Oxygen Deprivation:** The heart muscle is starved of oxygen.
* **Cell Damage:** Without oxygen, heart cells start to die.
* **Arrhythmias:** The heart's electrical system can become unstable, leading to irregular heartbeats.
Time is critical. Recognizing the symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and more) and seeking immediate medical attention can significantly minimize heart damage and improve your chances of survival. Knowing what happens during a heart attack empowers you to act quickly and potentially save a life.
