HealthInfo Aoraki-South Canterbury
What is a heart attack?
A heart attack is what happens when a blood clot stops blood getting to part of your heart muscle. This stops the heart muscle from getting enough oxygen, so that part of your heart muscle dies.
Different people may have different symptoms and warning signs, for example women and people with diabetes.
Several things make it more likely you will have a heart attack, including lifestyle factors. By changing your lifestyle you can lower your risk of a heart attack.
On the next page: Diagnosing & treating a heart attack
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by Cardiology GP liaison, Page created August 2016.
SourcesReview key: HIHAT-110391
