A heart attack—also called a myocardial infarction—happens when a blockage in the blood vessels prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart. Without timely restoration of blood flow, the affected part of the heart begins to suffer damage due to oxygen deprivation. If left untreated, a heart attack can be fatal.

Recognizing the signs early can make a crucial difference. Common symptoms include chest discomfort, sudden weakness, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. If these symptoms appear, calling emergency services immediately can improve the chances of survival and recovery.

Fortunately, surviving a heart attack does not mean giving up an active lifestyle. With prompt treatment and proper care, many individuals return to a normal, fulfilling life. While heart attacks are a serious health issue, there are many ways to prevent them and reduce your risk.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Heart attacks typically result from a lack of oxygen-rich blood reaching the heart. One of the most common causes is coronary artery disease. This occurs when coronary arteries, which supply the heart with blood, become narrowed due to plaque buildup. Over time, the narrowing may cause chest pain, trouble breathing, or complete blockage, which can trigger a heart attack.

There is also a form of heart attack known as MINOCA—myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries. This condition appears more often in people assigned female at birth, younger adults, and certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Asian Americans, and Latin Americans.

Heart attacks that are not caused by coronary artery disease can be linked to other conditions. You may be at risk if you live with one of the following issues:

small plaques: Even small buildups of plaque in artery walls can lead to clots and restricted blood flow.

coronary artery spasms: In some cases, a coronary artery may suddenly tighten severely, blocking blood flow.

blood clots: A clot may form in another part of the body and travel to the heart, causing a blockage in a coronary artery.

artery dissection: Occasionally, the inner layers of a coronary artery tear, which can result in a clot and blockage.

It’s also important to consider family history. If close family members—such as your parents or siblings—have had heart problems, your risk may be higher. For example, having a sibling with heart disease raises your risk by about 40%. If your parents experienced heart issues at a young age, your risk may increase by 60% to 75%.

Understanding your family’s heart health can help you take preventive steps early and manage your personal risk more effectively.

How To Reduce Risk

There are several key strategies you can use to lower your risk of having a heart attack. These include regular health screenings, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes, exploring complementary therapies with professional guidance.

Testing and Screenings

Staying on top of regular checkups is essential. Annual physical exams allow your healthcare provider to assess your heart health and detect any early warning signs. During these visits, they often focus on:

blood pressure: High blood pressure often has no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack. Regular monitoring and proper treatment are important.

cholesterol levels: A fasting lipoprotein profile measures your cholesterol. Most people need this test every four to six years, though those at higher risk may need more frequent testing.

blood glucose: Your provider may order a comprehensive metabolic panel to measure blood sugar. Elevated glucose levels may signal diabetes, which increases heart attack risk. Routine testing is especially important if you have diabetes.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting heart-healthy habits can greatly reduce your risk of a heart attack and improve your overall health. Consider implementing the following:

quitting smoking: Tobacco is one of the most harmful habits for heart health. Quitting can be difficult, so seek support from healthcare providers or cessation programs.

eating a balanced diet: Prioritize whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit saturated fats, sugar, and sodium to support a healthy heart.

keeping an eye on cholesterol: Maintain healthy cholesterol through diet, exercise, and if needed, medication prescribed by your doctor.

controlling blood pressure: High blood pressure strains the heart. Managing it with medication, physical activity, and reducing salt intake can lower your risk.

get moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. Even small amounts of regular exercise can improve heart health.

maintaining a healthy weight: Extra fat—especially around the waist—can raise your risk of heart disease. A balanced diet and exercise support a healthy body weight.

managing diabetes: Controlling blood sugar is crucial for those with diabetes. Regular monitoring, proper diet, and exercise all contribute to reducing risk.

prioritizing sleep: Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Poor sleep can negatively affect heart function and overall health.

reducing stress: Chronic stress harms the heart. Try healthy outlets like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, nature walks, or quality time with loved ones.

limiting alcohol use: Too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and sugar levels. If you drink, keep it to one drink a day for those assigned female at birth, or two drinks for those assigned male at birth.

Complementary Methods

Some natural supplements, such as ginseng and ginkgo biloba, have shown potential in early research for supporting heart health. However, evidence is still limited regarding their effectiveness and safety. If you're interested in trying herbal or complementary methods, always consult your healthcare provider first. They can help you decide whether these therapies are safe and suitable for your individual needs.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

If you have underlying medical conditions, a family history of heart disease, or concerns about your risk factors, it’s a good idea to speak openly with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your specific risks and help you take proactive steps.

Your provider is the best person to help you navigate lifestyle changes, choose the right screenings, and create a plan that supports your heart health. Whether you’re managing cholesterol, exploring a new diet, or beginning an exercise routine, medical guidance ensures you’re on a safe and effective path.

A Quick Review

A heart attack happens when blocked blood vessels prevent the heart from receiving enough oxygen. The good news is, there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk. From quitting smoking and eating healthy to managing blood pressure, exercising regularly, and reducing stress—each positive change contributes to a healthier heart.

If you’re unsure where to begin or are concerned about your risk factors, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Proactive care and healthy choices today can help protect your heart for years to come.