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Is my heart ok? This is one of the more common questions for a GP and is not always easy to answer. A heart attack, known also as a myocardial infarction, is when a blood vessel in the heart suddenly becomes blocked. This occurs if a waxy material known as plaque has built up over time and suddenly breaks off and moves down the vessel.  This would normally result in pain in the chest and sometimes pain in the jaw, neck or left arm.
For some reason, women can experience different symptoms to men such as shortness of breath, weakness, nausea and tiredness. Untreated, the heart may make a recovery over the following days and weeks, however, this is not always the case. Complications can arise. The worst being the heart coming to a complete stop. Seeking prompt medical attention is critical.
In determining whether a heart attack was in progress, blood tests and an ECG are appropriate. The urgent treatment for this may include medication or surgery.

The arteries in question are around the outside surface of the heart which is a muscle. The arteries supply the much need oxygen and nutrients for the heart to keep working continuously throughout life.  It is important that the arteries remain clear or plaque free.

A number of factors are known to cause progressive blocking of the arteries. Too much fat in the blood (known as high cholesterol), too much sugar in the blood (known as diabetes), a raised blood pressure, smoking and being overweight. Excessive stress and a family history of heart disease can also contribute. Knowing this offers the opportunity for prevention and assists with the concept of wellness. An assessment at your local health centre would include measuring height, weight, blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar. With this information, a CVD or cardiovascular disease assessment can be performed. Using the New Zealand heart foundation guidelines your GP or Practice Nurse will be able to give you a percentage chance for developing problems over the next five years. At the same time you will receive some advice as to how to improve that number. These checks are free every five years for men aged 45 to 74 and for women aged 55 to 74. There are also free checks for high risk groups of patients outside these ages.

Am I having a heart attack? Am I likely to have a heart attack? Can I reduce the chance of having a heart attack? Think wellness and get checked.