Prompt treatment can mean the difference between life and death.
Unfortunately, too many people attribute symptoms of a heart attack to something else, or hope they'll simply go away. Also called a myocardial infarction, a heart attack occurs when a blood clot or spasm in a coronary artery cuts off blood flow to part of the heart, explains James Carter , M.D., a cardiologist at Advocate's Trinity Hospital. That's why recognizing the warning signs and getting prompt medical treatment greatly improves chances of surviving a heart attack. You Should Know . Use of our site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use .