‘Widow Maker’ Heart Attacks: What to Know

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, and heart attacks by themselves can be deadly.

One of the most serious types of heart attack is the widow maker.

The scary name exists for good reason, as this type of heart attack presents immediate danger. Widow makers occur when a main artery becomes blocked. This means your heart cannot receive the constant flow of blood that it needs. This type of attack requires emergency treatment and without it, the chances of survival decrease rapidly.

Symptoms

As with any type of heart attack, the symptoms of a widow maker will be similar. You may feel:

  • Pain or discomfort in your chest
  • Pressure or tightness in your chest for a minute or more; It may stop and start again
  • Pain in your arms, neck, jaw, or stomach
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea and dizziness

If these symptoms occur or persist, emergency treatment may be required. In such a case, it may be better to call 911 for an ambulance because paramedics can assist you on your way to the emergency room.

What causes widow maker heart attacks?

Typically, heart disease in general and heart attacks in particular are caused by certain genetic factors and lifestyle habits. The risks increase significantly for people who:

  • Have high blood pressure
  • Are obese
  • Are heavy smokers
  • Do not exercise and/or have a poor diet
  • Have a diabetic condition
  • Have a family history of heart disease

Lowering the risk for heart disease and attacks

Fortunately, many of the factors mentioned are reduceable or reversible, which will decrease the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. A proper diet, exercise plan and healthy habits such as not smoking go a long way toward heart health. This is where an assisted living facility can help establish and maintain healthy diet and exercise plans to increase cardiovascular strength and manage other contributing diseases such as diabetes.

For more information or to ask any questions about how assisted living programs can help reduce the chances of heart disease, visit our website or call 815-787-6500.

Heritage Woods of DeKalb

2626 N. Annie Glidden Rd

DeKalb, IL

60115

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