Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked for a long enough time that part of the heart muscle is damaged or dies. Here’s a detailed overview:
Introduction
Definition: Myocardial infarction is the irreversible necrosis of heart muscle secondary to prolonged ischemia.
Causes: Most commonly caused by a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis.
Pathophysiology
Atherosclerosis: The buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls.
Plaque Rupture: When the plaque ruptures, a blood clot forms that can block the flow of blood.
Ischemia: Reduced blood flow leads to ischemia and eventually infarction of the heart muscle.
Symptoms
Chest Pain: Often described as a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the chest.
Radiating Pain: Pain may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.
Other Symptoms: Shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, lightheadedness, and fatigue.
Diagnosis
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects electrical changes in the heart.
Blood Tests: Elevated levels of cardiac enzymes (e.g., troponin).
Imaging: Echocardiogram, coronary angiography.
Treatment
Medications: Antiplatelets, anticoagulants, thrombolytics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors.
Procedures: Angioplasty, stent placement, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
Prevention
Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation.
Medications: Statins, antihypertensives, antidiabetics.
Images
Here are some images to help visualize the concepts:
Atherosclerosis:
ECG Changes in MI:
Coronary Angiography:
I hope this helps! If you need more specific information or additional images, feel free to ask.
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