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A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle. This can be caused by a blood clot, a build-up of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis), or other factors.
Symptoms of a heart attack can include:
- Chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like a tightness, pressure, or squeezing sensation
- Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
If you think you or someone else is experiencing a heart attack, it is important to call for emergency medical help right away. Time is of the essence in treating a heart attack, and early treatment can help prevent serious damage to the heart muscle.
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