A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is severely reduced or completely blocked. This blockage prevents the heart muscle from receiving adequate oxygen, leading to damage or death of the affected tissue. Blood pressure during such an event can vary significantly, ranging from elevated to normal or even low.
Blood Pressure During an Acute Heart Attack
Blood pressure can fluctuate during an acute heart attack. Some individuals experience an increase, often attributed to the body’s “fight or flight” response releasing hormones like adrenaline. This causes the heart to beat faster and stronger, temporarily raising blood pressure.
Conversely, blood pressure can remain normal or even drop. A decrease can occur if the heart muscle is significantly damaged and unable to pump blood effectively. Severe pain can also trigger a vasovagal response, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure and potentially fainting. Therefore, a specific blood pressure reading alone is not a definitive indicator of a heart attack; it is one of many signs medical professionals consider.
Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
Given blood pressure variability, recognizing heart attack symptoms is important for timely intervention. The most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or aching. This discomfort can last for more than a few minutes, or it may go away and return.
Pain or discomfort may also spread to other areas of the upper body, including one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Many people might mistake this pain for indigestion or heartburn. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, or breaking out in a cold sweat.
Symptoms can differ between individuals; women often experience more subtle or atypical signs. While chest pain is common for women, they are more likely to experience symptoms such as unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, or pain in the back or jaw. These less obvious warning signs can sometimes lead to delays in seeking medical attention.
High Blood Pressure as a Risk Factor
It is important to distinguish between blood pressure readings during an acute heart attack and chronic high blood pressure, known as hypertension, which is a long-term risk factor. Uncontrolled hypertension can damage blood vessel walls over time, leading to tiny tears. The body attempts to repair these damaged areas, and substances like cholesterol and fats can accumulate, forming plaque.
This process, called atherosclerosis, causes arteries to narrow and harden, restricting blood flow to the heart. If a plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form at the site, potentially blocking the artery and leading to a heart attack. Persistent high blood pressure makes the heart work harder, which can cause the heart muscle to thicken and weaken over time, increasing the likelihood of heart failure and heart attacks.
Immediate Action and Medical Care
If a heart attack is suspected, immediate action is important to minimize heart muscle damage. The most important step is to call emergency services, such as 911, without delay. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) can begin medical care upon arrival and transport the individual safely and quickly to the hospital, often providing faster treatment than if one were to drive themselves.
Time is a significant factor in treating a heart attack, as prompt medical attention can help restore blood flow and limit permanent heart damage. While waiting for emergency services, keep the person calm and have them sit or lie down in a comfortable position. If not allergic to aspirin, chewing and swallowing a 300mg aspirin tablet may be recommended, as it can help thin the blood and improve blood flow.