Disease
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Overview of Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot, leading to damage or death of heart muscle tissue. This medical emergency is often the result of ischemia, a condition where oxygen-rich blood is reduced or cut off entirely. Prompt medical care is critical to minimize heart damage and save lives.
Types of Heart Attack
- ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI): Complete blockage of a coronary artery, evident on ECG.
- Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI): Partial blockage; damage is less visible on ECG.
- Silent Heart Attack: No obvious symptoms, but damage occurs silently—common in diabetics.
- Type 2 MI: Imbalance between oxygen supply and demand without coronary artery obstruction.
- Anterior & Inferior Myocardial Infarction: Based on the heart area affected (front or lower wall).
Symptoms of Myocardial Infarction
- Sudden chest pain or pressure (may radiate to left arm, back, jaw).
- Shortness of breath and extreme fatigue.
- Cold sweats and lightheadedness.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations.
- In women: jaw pain, upper back pain, extreme fatigue or shortness of breath (often without chest pain).
Causes of Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
- Blockage in coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis
- Ruptured plaque causing a blood clot
- Severe coronary artery spasm
- Cocaine use or extreme stress
- Sudden narrowing of arteries (coronary ischemia)
Complications in Heart Attack
- Heart failure due to weakened pumping ability
- Arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest
- Cardiogenic shock
- Pericarditis or inflammation around the heart
- Recurrent infarction or ischemia
Risk Factors of Heart Attack
- High blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes
- Smoking and obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet
- Stress and excessive alcohol use
- Family history of ischemic heart disease
- Age (Men >45, Women >55)
Preventions of Myocardial Infarction
- Healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and diet
- Managing blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels
- Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol
- Stress reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
- Taking aspirin if prescribed for cardiac protection
- Early screening if you have risk factors or family history
Diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction
ECG (Electrocardiogram) to detect acute MI changes
Blood tests for troponin levels (cardiac enzymes)
Echocardiogram to assess heart damage
Coronary angiography to visualize blockages
Stress tests and CT angiography for ischemia
Treatments of Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
- Medications: Aspirin, nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, thrombolytics
- Angioplasty and stenting: To open blocked arteries
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): for multiple blockages
- Lifestyle modifications: Essential post-MI
- Rehabilitation programs: For monitored recovery and lifestyle changes
Prognosis of Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Survival rate depends on how quickly treatment is received.
Good recovery possible with timely intervention and lifestyle change.
Risk of second heart attack reduced with proper management.
Prognosis is worse if heart failure or large infarct occurs.
Lifelong monitoring of heart health is necessary.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Expert cardiologists with 24×7 emergency support.
- Quick access to angioplasty, CABG and cardiac ICU.
- International patient care coordination.
- Customised cardiac rehabilitation plans.
- Post-treatment monitoring, follow-ups and lifestyle counseling.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What caused my heart attack?
- Will I need surgery or can it be treated with medications?
- How do I prevent another heart attack?
- What changes should I make in my diet or exercise?
- How will this affect my work and personal life?
- What tests do I need regularly now?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Detailed explanation of your heart condition
- Clear steps on the treatment and recovery plan
- Transparency about risks, procedures and outcomes
- Guidance on medication, diet and physical activity
- Emotional and psychological support post-MI
- Timeline for resuming work or normal life
- Help with medical documents and fitness certificates
- Information on emergency signs and when to call for help