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What is a Heart Attack?
A coronary attack (heart attack) occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked (often by a blood clot).
This happens because coronary arteries that supply the heart with blood slowly become thicker and harder from a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances, called plaque.

If the plaque breaks open and a blood clot forms that blocks the blood flow, a heart attack occurs. Then the heart muscle supplied by that artery begins to die. Damage increases the longer an artery stays blocked.

Once that muscle dies, the result is permanent damage. Disability or death can result, depending on the level of damage.


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