There are two types of complications that can follow a heart attack. The first type of complication occurs immediately after the attack and the second occurs later on. Immediate Complications • Arrhythmias – The heartbeat becomes irregular. It beats either too fast or too slow. • Cardiogenic Shock – Sudden lowering of blood pressure causing difficulty for the heart to pump enough blood for the body. • Pulmonary Edema – Fluid accumulation in and around the lungs. • Hypoxemia – Blood oxygen levels become too low. • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Deep veins of the pelvis and legs develop blood clots interrupting the blood flow in the vein. • Myocardial Rupture – Damages caused to the heart walls due to the heart attack may increase the possibility of a heart wall rupture. • Ventricular Aneurysm – A bulge is formed in the ventricle (heart chamber). Complications That Can Occur Later • Aneurysm – The damaged heart wall tissue can get scarred, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots, and low blood pressure. • Angina – Chest pain caused by a deficiency of oxygen in the heart. • Congestive Heart Failure – The heartbeat weakens and leaves the person feeling exhausted. • Edema – Swelling of ankles and legs. • Erectile Dysfunction – A heart disease can cause erectile dysfunction in men. • Loss of Libido – Men can experience a loss of sexual drive. • Pericarditis – Pericardium (lining of the heart) can get inflamed and cause severe chest pain.