A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It occurs when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of the heart muscle is suddenly blocked, causing that part of the heart to begin dying. At ABloom Home Care, we believe that education is the first step in prevention. By understanding the “how” and “why” of heart attacks, families can take proactive steps to protect their loved ones.

How a Heart Attack Happens

The heart muscle needs a constant supply of oxygen to function. This oxygen is delivered through the coronary arteries. A heart attack usually happens when one or more of these arteries become blocked.

• The Blockage: Most heart attacks are the result of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Over time, a sticky substance called plaque (made of fat and cholesterol) builds up on the inner walls of the arteries.
• The Rupture: If a piece of this plaque breaks or ruptures, a blood clot forms around it.
• The Result: This clot can completely block blood flow. If the blockage isn’t treated quickly, the portion of the heart muscle nourished by that artery begins to die, leading to permanent heart damage.

The Different Types of Heart Attacks

Not all heart attacks look or feel the same. Doctors typically categorize them into three main types:

1. STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction): This is a total blockage of a major coronary artery. It is a severe form of heart attack that requires immediate, aggressive treatment.
2. NSTEMI (Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction): This is usually a partial blockage or a blockage of a smaller branch artery. While “less severe” than a STEMI, it still causes significant heart damage.
3. Coronary Artery Spasm: Sometimes, an artery “spasms” or cramps, temporarily cutting off blood flow. This can happen even in people without significant plaque buildup.

Who is at Risk?

While a heart attack can strike anyone, certain factors make it much more likely:

• Age and Gender: Men aged 45 or older and women aged 55 or older are at higher risk.
• Family History: If your parents or siblings had early heart disease, your risk increases.
• Chronic Health Conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes are major contributors.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and high stress levels put significant strain on the cardiovascular system.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Symptoms can vary between men and women. While chest pain is common, look out for:

• Pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation in the chest.
• Pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, back, or left arm.
• Shortness of breath and cold sweats.
• In Women: Symptoms are often subtler, including extreme fatigue, nausea, or lightheadedness.

Prevention: Taking Control of Heart Health

The good news is that many risk factors are manageable. You can reduce the risk by:

1. Adopting a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while avoiding trans fats and excessive salt.
2. Regular Physical Activity: Even a 30-minute daily walk can significantly strengthen the heart muscle.
3. Quitting Smoking: This is the single most important change a smoker can make to improve heart health.
4. Managing Stress: Chronic stress increases blood pressure; finding healthy outlets like hobbies or meditation is essential.

How ABloom Home Care Supports Heart Wellness

Managing heart health or recovering from a cardiac event is easier with a partner. ABloom Home Care provides tailored support to help seniors maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle at home:

• Nutritional Meal Preparation: We prepare delicious, low-sodium meals that follow cardiac-safe guidelines.
• Medication Management: Ensuring heart and blood pressure medications are taken consistently and correctly.
• Monitoring Vital Signs: Our caregivers can assist in tracking blood pressure and weight, reporting any sudden changes to family or doctors.
• Safe Exercise Companionship: We provide the physical and emotional support needed for daily walks and prescribed therapy exercises.

Schedule your free heart-health home assessment with ABloom Home Care today!

References

• American Heart Association. (2024). About Heart Attacks. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks
• Mayo Clinic. (2025). Heart Attack: Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-attack/symptoms-causes/syc-20373106
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2024). Heart Attack. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/heart-attack