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Heart Attack

A heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction or MI. It occurs when a
blood vessel that feeds the heart muscle becomes blocked. Blood flow stops
to a part of the heart. If treatment is not done right away, this part of the
heart muscle dies. A scar forms in this part of your heart.

Blockage may occur from:
• Fatty deposits called plaque

• A spasm in the blood vessel

• A blood clot

Signs of a Heart Attack

• Pain or pressure in the middle of your chest, arm, jaw, shoulders, neck or

stomach. It may spread from one place to another.
─ Feeling of tightness, crushing, aching, choking, squeezing, burning or

heartburn

─ Occurs both during activity and at rest
─ Lasts for more than 15 minutes

• Sweating
• Shortness of breath

• Weakness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Feeling scared

• Dizziness

Call 911 right away if you have any of these signs. Sit or lie down until the
emergency squad arrives. Do not drive to the hospital or delay by calling
your doctor.

Discharge Instructions After a Heart Attack

The heart takes several months to heal.
• Go to your follow-up doctor’s appointment.

• Ask about getting into a cardiac rehab program.

• Limit your activity for 4-6 weeks.

─ Rest each day.