Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack, occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle. This blockage is typically due to a blood clot that forms in a coronary artery, which supplies blood to the heart.

Symptoms:

1. Chest pain or discomfort (often described as a squeezing or heavy sensation)
2. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
3. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
4. Feeling weak, lightheaded, or faint
5. A cold sweat
6. A rapid or irregular heartbeat
7. Nausea or vomiting

Causes:

1. Coronary artery disease
2. Blood clots
3. High blood pressure
4. High cholesterol
5. Smoking
6. Diabetes
7. Obesity
8. Family history

Treatment:

1. Medications to dissolve blood clots
2. Medications to reduce pain and prevent further damage
3. Angioplasty and stenting to open blocked arteries
4. Coronary artery bypass grafting
5. Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, etc)