Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when there is a sudden blockage in the blood flow to the heart muscle.
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During a heart attack, the blockage in the coronary artery results in reduced blood flow (ischemia) to the heart muscle. If blood flow is not quickly restored, the affected heart tissue can undergo irreversible damage or death (necrosis).
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The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. It is often described as a tight, crushing, or squeezing sensation in the chest and can sometimes radiate to the arm, back, jaw, or neck.
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In addition to chest pain, heart attack symptoms may include shortness of breath, cold sweats, lightheadedness, nausea, and vomiting. However, symptoms can vary, especially in women, the elderly, and people with diabetes.
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Certain factors increase the risk of myocardial infarction, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history of heart disease, and age (risk increases with age).
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A heart attack is a medical emergency, and anyone experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Timely treatment can save lives and minimize the extent of heart muscle damage.
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Doctors use several tests to diagnose a heart attack, including electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), blood tests (troponin), echocardiogram, and coronary angiography, which allows visualization of the blocked artery.
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Treatment for a heart attack may involve medications to dissolve blood clots or improve blood flow, angioplasty with stent placement to open the blocked artery, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in severe cases
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After a heart attack, cardiac rehabilitation programs can help patients recover and adopt heart-healthy lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, smoking cessation, and stress management
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Preventing heart attacks involves managing risk factors through lifestyle modifications and medical interventions.