A heart attack — medically called a myocardial infarction (MI) — happens when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Without prompt treatment, the affected heart muscle begins to die, making heart attacks a medical emergency.
At Oly Heart & Vascular Institute, we want our community to understand the warning signs, risk factors, and steps to take during a heart attack — because quick action can save lives.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
Most heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), where fatty deposits (plaque) build up inside the arteries that supply blood to the heart. If a plaque ruptures, a clot can form and block blood flow.
Other, less common causes include:
- Coronary artery spasm (sudden tightening of an artery)
- Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) — more common in women
- Severe oxygen shortage from conditions like anemia or low blood pressure
Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
Classic Symptoms:
- Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort — often in the center or left side of the chest
- Pain radiating to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
Symptoms More Common in Women:
Women may experience subtler or “atypical” symptoms, such as:
- Unusual fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Pressure in the upper back or abdomen
If you think you or someone else may be having a heart attack — call 911 immediately. Do not try to drive yourself to the hospital.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain factors increase your likelihood of having a heart attack:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of early heart disease
- Chronic stress
How Heart Attacks Are Diagnosed
At Oly Heart, we use advanced tools to quickly confirm and treat heart attacks:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Detects abnormal heart rhythms and damage
- Blood tests – Measures cardiac enzymes like troponin
- Coronary angiography – Identifies blockages in the arteries
Treatment Options
Time is critical — treatment works best when started within minutes of symptoms.
- Emergency medications – Blood thinners, clot-busting drugs, nitroglycerin
- Angioplasty & stenting – Opens blocked arteries and restores blood flow
- Coronary artery bypass surgery – Creates a new path for blood to reach the heart
Life After a Heart Attack
Recovery focuses on prevention of another event:
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Heart-healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Medications for blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart function
- Ongoing follow-up with a cardiologist
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
You can greatly reduce your risk by:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains
- Staying physically active
- Quitting smoking
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Scheduling regular heart check-ups
Your Heart Health Partner in Olympia, WA
At Oly Heart & Vascular Institute, we’re committed to preventing, diagnosing, and treating heart disease with precision and compassion.
📍 Address: 3620 Ensign Rd NE, Ste B, Olympia, WA 98506
📞 Call us today to schedule a heart health evaluation.
Oly Heart & Vascular Institute – Leading with Precision in Heart Health.