Treatment for a heart attack is increasingly successful at prolonging life and reducing complications and hospitalization. But a heart attack can lead to progressive, fatal conditions, such as heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). Many important end-of-life decisions can be made while you are active and able to communicate your wishes.

When you are diagnosed with a heart attack, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you. Your doctor may talk to you about your desire to be revived (resuscitated) if your heart stops pumping and you are unable to breathe on your own. You may want to learn more about aggressive life-sustaining medical treatment and whether it is right for you. For more information, see:

Should I receive CPR and mechanical ventilation?

Many other decisions about end-of-life issues, such as writing a living will and estate planning, can be made in advance, leaving valuable time that can be spent with loved ones and on other important matters. For more information, see the topics Care at the End of Life and Writing an Advance Directive.