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Heart Attack Info
Each year, over a million people in the United States experience a heart attack, and about half of them will die as a result. A heart attack occurs when the supply of blood and oxygen to part of the heart is blocked. It requires immediate medical attention -- a delay can result in death or lasting heart damage.
Symptoms will vary from person to person. However, the most common ones include:
- Chest discomfort
- Pain in one or both arms, the left shoulder, neck, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath.
Treatment will also vary, depending on a person's specific situation. Stopping an attack in progress, as well as helping to prevent a second attack, may involve:
- Medications
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Lifestyle changes.
(For more info, click Heart Attack. This article takes an in-depth look at risk factors, recovery, prognosis, and more.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD