what is a widow maker heart attack

A widow maker heart attack is a type of heart attack that occurs when there is a full blockage in the left anterior descending (LAD) artery, which is the largest artery in the heart and provides almost 50% of the blood supply to the heart muscle. This blockage can be caused by cholesterol and fatty plaque that clog the arteries over time and choke off blood. The symptoms of a widow maker heart attack are the same as those of a typical heart attack, including discomfort, pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest, neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, or back, shortness of breath, weakness, and lightheadedness. Immediate treatment is crucial for a chance at survival, and a heart attack is a medical emergency. If you think you are having a heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Despite its name, a widow maker heart attack can affect both men and women.