Myocardial infarction

Definition

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked for an extended period. This blockage leads to damage or death of the heart muscle tissue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Myocardial infarctions are primarily caused by blockages in one or more coronary arteries due to plaque buildup.
2. Symptoms often include chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and sweating.
3. Immediate treatment often involves medications like aspirin and procedures such as angioplasty to restore blood flow.
4. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and family history of heart disease.
5. Diagnostic tools include electrocardiograms (ECGs), blood tests for cardiac enzymes, and imaging techniques like echocardiography.

Review Questions

• What is the primary cause of myocardial infarction?
• List three common symptoms associated with a myocardial infarction.
• What are two primary diagnostic tools used to identify myocardial infarction?

Related terms

Angina: Chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.

Atherosclerosis: A condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques in the arterial walls.

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): A surgical procedure that improves blood flow to the heart by diverting blood around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries.