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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Conditions
  3. Heart Attack

Condition: Heart Attack

Also called: Myocardial Infarction

Each year almost 800,000 Americans have a heart attack. A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart suddenly becomes blocked. Without the blood coming in, the heart can't get oxygen. If not treated quickly, the heart muscle begins to die. But if you do get quick treatment, you may be able to prevent or limit damage to the heart muscle. That's why it's important to know the symptoms of a heart attack and call 911 if you or someone else is having them. You should call, even if you are not sure that it is a heart attack.

The most common symptoms in men and women are:

  • Chest discomfort. It is often in center or left side of the chest. It usually lasts more than a few minutes. It may go away and come back. It can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. It also can feel like heartburn or indigestion.
  • Shortness of breath. Sometimes this is your only symptom. You may get it before or during the chest discomfort. It can happen when you are resting or doing a little bit of physical activity.
  • Discomfort in the upper body. You may feel pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, shoulders, neck, jaw, or upper part of the stomach.

You may also have other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. You may break out in a cold sweat. Sometimes women will have different symptoms then men. For example, they are more likely to feel tired for no reason.

The most common cause of heart attacks is coronary artery disease (CAD). With CAD, there is a buildup of cholesterol and other material, called plaque, on their inner walls or the arteries. This is atherosclerosis. It can build up for years. Eventually an area of plaque can rupture (break open). A blood clot can form around the plaque and block the artery.

A less common cause of heart attack is a severe spasm (tightening) of a coronary artery. The spasm cuts off blood flow through the artery.

At the hospital, health care providers make a diagnosis based on your symptoms, blood tests, and different heart health tests. Treatments may include medicines and medical procedures such as coronary angioplasty. After a heart attack, cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle changes can help you recover.

NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Courtesy of MedlinePlus from the National Library of Medicine.

Syndicated Content Details:
Source URL: https://medlineplus.gov/heartattack.html?utm_source=mplusconnect&utm_medium=service
Source Agency: National Library of Medicine

Contents

  • Resources
  • Treatments & Procedures
  • Providers
  • Locations
  • Areas of Expertise
  • Make an Appointment

Resources Related to Heart Attack

Signs of a Stroke (Article)

The most common symptoms of a stroke are listed below; however, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

Read the Article

Treatments and Procedures Related to Heart Attack

UAMS Health providers perform and prescribe a broad range of treatments and procedures, some of which may not be listed below.

  • Aortoiliac Endarterectomy (AIE)
  • Cardiac CT

Providers Diagnosing or Treating Heart Attack

Note that every provider listed below may not perform or prescribe all treatments or procedures related to Heart Attack. Review each provider for availability.

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Mark O Hardin, M.D.

Mark O Hardin, M.D. Thoracic Surgeon

View Profile
John E. Streitman, M.D.

John E. Streitman, M.D. Thoracic Surgeon

View Profile

Locations Where Providers Treat Heart Attack

Note that the treatment of Heart Attack may not be performed at every location listed below. The list may include locations where the treatment plan is developed during and after a patient visit.

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Exterior of Outpatient Center

Cardiology Clinic at the UAMS Medical Center (Part of the Heart Center)

4110 Outpatient Circle
Outpatient Center
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-686-8000
New and Returning Patients
View Location Get Directions

Areas of Expertise for Heart Attack

doctor using stethoscope to exam patient heart

Adult Heart Care

Trust your heart to the UAMS Health specialists, offering both surgical and minimally-invasive procedures to keep your heart in peak performance.

View Area of Expertise

Cardiothoracic Surgery (Part of Adult Heart Care)

Commonly called open-heart surgery, cardiothoracic surgery focuses on the heart, blood vessels, heart valves, esophagus, and lungs.

View Area of Expertise

Interventional Cardiology (Part of Adult Heart Care)

UAMS Health's interventional cardiology specialists are the experts in diagnosing heart issues and clearing clogged arteries.

View Area of Expertise

Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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