Have you ever heard of a widower’s heart attack? Key points explaining why they happen and the dangers associated with them

Complete blockage of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) causes a widower’s heart attack.

The informal designation of widow is based on the importance of LAD in heart function. LAD is the heart’s largest artery and provides more than half of the blood supply to the heart muscle.

Widowmaker’s heart attack is life-threatening because in this case the largest artery of one of the highly functional organs of the body is completely blocked.

Since LAD carries fresh blood to the heart to deliver the right amount of oxygen it needs to pump properly, a blockage in it can cause cardiac arrest very quickly.

There is a much lower survival rate in this type of heart attack

No, contrary to what it has been called, widowhood does not only happen to men. It also affects women.

Men over 45 and women over 50 are at risk for a widower’s heart attack. Those who have a family history of heart disease and other medical conditions are susceptible to developing this condition.

Common symptoms of a widower’s heart attack include: chest pain (which is not likely to occur in women), shortness of breath, dizziness, stomach problem, fatigue, lightheadedness, and pain radiating to the arms , shoulders, neck, jaw and back from the chest.

For Denise Castille, surviving a widow’s heart attack has given her new life. In 2015, Denise observed swollen feet and heart palpitations and went to see doctors who told her everything was fine. He was told that his weight was higher.

Then, when her symptoms turned into chest pain, she again went to see a doctor and was again told that she was suffering from stress. Less than three weeks later, she had a heart attack, she told TODAY.

There are several reasons why the artery may become blocked.

Common causes of this heart attack are cholesterol buildup or atherosclerosis in the artery.

Blood clots can also trigger this form of heart attack.

Eating clean, seasonal foods, keeping the body active throughout the day, reducing alcohol and cigarette intake, and getting a decent amount of sleep can help prevent widow heart attacks.

Cholesterol risk factors should also be tested regularly. Blood tests should be done regularly and statins should be taken in order to regulate cholesterol levels.

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