Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for men in the United States. The most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is a narrowing of the small blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. When a heart attack occurs, blood flow to the heart is reduced or cut off.
The warning signs of a heart attack in men vary slightly from women. Chest pain is a classic male heart attack symptom which may last for more than a few minutes or, it can come and go.
Other signs to be aware of include: discomfort or pain in other areas, such as one or both arms, the back, neck or jaw; shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea or sweating; abdominal discomfort that may feel like indigestion
Ideally, treatments to restore blood flow to heart muscle, for example, clot-dissolving drugs or angioplasty, should begin within one hour after heart attack symptoms begin.
Some men are more at risk than others for developing heart disease. In addition to hereditary, other risk factors are high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, substance abuse, high cholesterol and lifestyle may play a role.
Preventative measures can lower the chances of having heart disease. Before undertaking any program to improve cardiovascular health, see a medical doctor. A physician may suggest a plan that includes eating certain foods, specific exercises and appropriate ways to reduce stress.