How Does a Heart Attack Happen? A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Introduction

Have you ever wondered, “How does a heart attack happen?” Understanding this phenomenon could make a huge difference in detecting early symptoms and preventing heart disease. 

This blog breaks down the step-by-step progression of heart disease, from the formation of varicose veins in the arteries to the stage of complete blockage of blood flow. 

Knowing this information is important for prevention and early intervention.

Plaque Buildup: The Beginning of a Heart Attack

What is Plaque?

Plaque consists of cholesterol, fatty deposits, calcium, and other substances in the blood that stick together. It can build up on artery walls over time.

How Plaque Forms

Plaque development starts when the inner artery walls are damaged, usually due to high cholesterol levels, smoking, or high blood pressure. The body tries to fix this damage, but then fatty deposits and cholesterol collect there and begin to form plaques.

Role of Atherosclerosis

This condition, referred to as atherosclerosis, leads to the arteries becoming narrower and harder. As a result, they become less flexible and restrict blood flow to the heart.

Impact on Blood Flow

As plaque buildup progresses, the arteries gradually become more blocked. This means that blood containing plenty of oxygen finds it harder to reach the heart.

With less blood flowing through them, the coronary arteries set the stage for a potential heart attack.

Plaque Rupture: Triggering a Blood Clot

What Happens When Plaque Ruptures?

When a deposit of plaque in the coronary artery ruptures, it can lead to a heart attack. This rupture exposes the contents of the plaque to the bloodstream, where they trigger an immune response.

How a Blood Clot Forms

When an artery tears, the body responds as if there has been an injury, forming a blood clot to seal off the damaged area; although this is protective, in arteries it can also be dangerous.

How Blood Clots Block Arteries

When the blood clot grows big enough, it can stop all blood from flowing through the artery. This means oxygen can’t get to your heart muscle.

Potential for Heart Attack

The primary reason for heart attack is obstructions from blood clots. The severity of the attack depends on where the blockages occur and how big they are.

The Blockage: Blood Flow is Completely Stopped

The Result of a Blockage

If blood flow stops completely, the heart muscle doesn’t get oxygen and nutrients. Heart muscle cells die within minutes.

Impact on Heart Muscle

If the blood flow blockage continues for a long time, it will cause heart muscle damage. This damage may become permanent if you do not get medical help right away.

Golden Period in Heart Attack 

Time is critical during a heart attack. Within 10-30  minutes of oxygen deprivation, the heart muscle begins to sustain permanent damage. Rapid treatment can minimise this impact. Hence, the first 3 hours are called the Golden Period in the incidence of a heart attack.

Symptoms of Blockage

Heart attack symptoms include:

• Intense chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Pain radiating to the arms, neck, or jaw
• Cold sweat and nausea

The Resulting Heart Attack

What Exactly is a Heart Attack?

When there is a total blockage of blood flow to part of the heart muscle, it can cause a heart attack or myocardial infarction. This damage affects the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

Impact on the Heart’s Function

The severity of the attack determines how much the heart’s function is compromised. Severe attacks can lead to heart failure, ventricular tachycardia & SCA, or other complications.

The Degree of Damage

The extent of the heart attack damage depends on the duration of the blockage and the specific artery affected. Early treatment can significantly reduce the damage.

Heart Attack Treatment

Treatment options include:

• Medications: Thrombolytics (clot-busting drugs), antiplatelets, statin, and beta-blockers manage heart attacks effectively.
• Angioplasty and Stenting: These procedures reopen blocked arteries.
• Bypass Surgery: To create new pathways for blood flow.

Preventing a Heart Attack

Importance of Prevention

It is always better to prevent than treat. If you address what causes heart attacks, you can greatly lower your risk.

Preventive Measures

• Healthy Eating: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding saturated fats and trans fats.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.
• Quitting Smoking: Smoking damages the arteries and accelerates plaque buildup.
• Managing Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing.
• Routine Check-ups: Regularly monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.

Additional Reading: Here is an engaging article by one of our specialists on how one can reduce their heart attack risk: How to Beat Heart Attack Risks: Expert Advice from HCG’s Cardiologists 

Conclusion

A heart attack is a stepwise process that begins with plaque buildup, progresses to atherosclerosis, and ends with blood clots, causing myocardial damage. Understanding this progression can help identify early symptoms and develop preventive strategies. You can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease by leading a healthy lifestyle and getting regular medical checkups.

If you experience symptoms or need professional advice, consult with the cardiologists at HCG hospitals. We have state-of-the-art facilities in Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Bhavnagar. Visit our cardiac special education page for more information on heart health and preventive care.