What Causes a Heart Attack (Explained Simply)

The Blood Block: A heart attack happens when blood can’t reach part of the heart because of a blocked artery.
Plaque Trouble: Fat, cholesterol, and calcium can build up inside arteries, forming a sticky clog called plaque.
The Break Point: When plaque cracks, a blood clot can form—suddenly cutting off the heart’s oxygen supply.
Starved for Air: Without oxygen, heart muscle cells begin to die within minutes, causing lasting damage.
Warning Signals: Chest pressure, pain spreading to the arm or jaw, shortness of breath, or nausea are classic red flags.
Silent Strikes: Some heart attacks happen quietly, with only fatigue or mild discomfort as the only clues.
Risk Builders: Smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stress all make artery blockages more likely.
Timing Matters: Quick medical help can restore blood flow and save heart tissue—every minute counts.
Repair Mode: After a heart attack, the body forms scar tissue where muscle was lost, affecting how the heart beats.
Prevention Power: Healthy eating, movement, stress control, and regular checkups keep your heart’s pathways clear.