Heart attacks are some of the common and dangerous health conditions in the world. A heart attack is clinically known as myocardial infarction. A heart attack occurs due to the blockage of blood supply to part of the heart muscle. It is good to know the causes to reduce risks and save lives. Here are the top 7 common causes of heart attack.

With a healthy lifestyle, heart attacks can be avoided. The occasional checkup, healthy eating, exercise, and stress management are the top ways to keep your heart safe and add years to life.

7 common causes of Heart Attack

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
The most common cause, CAD occurs when arteries supplying blood to the heart become clogged and narrowed due to plaque deposits. This reduces blood and oxygen flow, making the heart attack more likely.

2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Ongoing high blood pressure increases the load on the heart, slowly damaging arteries. This will lead to hardened walls of the arteries and increased risk of a clot, and a heart attack is thus more probable.

3. High Cholesterol Levels
Too much LDL (bad cholesterol) leads to the accumulation of plaque in arteries. A block is formed when the plaque ruptures, leading to a heart attack. HDL (good cholesterol) helps to clear LDL from the blood.

4. Smoking
Tobacco smoke contains high levels of harmful chemicals that damage blood vessels and reduce blood oxygen. Smoking increases clot formation, which may lead to a heart attack.

5. Diabetes
People with diabetes have higher blood glucose levels that damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. They are also more likely to have high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which contribute to the risk.

6. Physical Inactivity and Obesity
Being overweight increases the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes—three risk factors for heart attacks. Lack of physical activity contributes to heart disease too.

7. Stress and Poor Mental Health
Excessive stress may encourage unhealthy practices like overeating, smoking, or inadequate sleep. Stress also increases the levels of cortisol, which can affect blood pressure and lead to heart rhythm disorders.

ALSO READ: Heart Attack in Indians: Causes and Tips to Stay Safe

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