Page 158 - Health, Population and Environment Education 10

blocked due to deposition of cholesterol in the inner wall of the artery. It prevents the
circulation of blood to the heart muscles. It results in heart attack.

Fig: 15
Coronary artery Blocked coronary artery Heart attack

Similarly, brain stroke occurs due to blockage of cerebral arteries that supply pure blood
to the different parts of the brain.

A brief description of heart attack and brain stroke is given below:

a. Heart Attack
Heart attack is a life-threatening disease. It is a serious medical emergency which occurs
due to sudden stop in the supply of blood to the heart. Actually, heart attack is the damage
in the heart muscles due to lack of blood flow. This condition occurs when coronary artery
gets blocked.

Symptoms of Heart Attack
The major symptoms of heart attack are given below:
1. Severe chest pain as if hit with a sword
2. Sweating
3. Dizziness
4. Shortness of breath
5. Pain in the left side of the chest
6. Feeling of heartburn
7. Nausea
8. Vomiting
9. Weakness
10. Irregular heartbeat
11. Faint pulse
12. Unconsciousness

Causes of Heart Attack

The major causes of heart attack include:
1. Deposition of cholesterol in the inner wall of coronary artery
158 GREEN Health, Population and Environment Education Book-10