Acute myocardial infarction

Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), 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. This is most often caused by a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries due to plaque (a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other substances). AMI is a medical emergency, and immediate treatment is crucial to prevent death and minimize heart damage.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The primary cause of an acute myocardial infarction is the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque within a coronary artery. This leads to the formation of a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Other causes may include spasm of a coronary artery, tearing of the artery (dissection), and less commonly, blockage by a clot that has traveled from another part of the body (embolism).

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Common symptoms of an acute myocardial infarction include:

Chest pain or discomfort, often described as aching, pressure, tightness, or burning
Pain radiating to the jaw, neck, shoulders, back, or arms
Shortness of breath
Nausea, vomiting
Sweating
Light-headedness or sudden dizziness

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of AMI primarily involves:

Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect electrical changes in the heart
Blood tests to detect increased levels of certain enzymes or proteins, such as troponins
Imaging tests, such as echocardiography, may also be used to assess heart damage.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for AMI aims to restore blood flow to the heart and may include:

Medications such as aspirin, thrombolytics (clot busters), anticoagulants, and beta-blockers
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a procedure to open blocked coronary arteries
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery in more severe cases

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures for AMI include lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, and managing stress. Medications may also be prescribed to manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis after an AMI depends on the extent of heart damage and the immediate treatment received. Early treatment significantly improves outcomes. Rehabilitation, including physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, is crucial for recovery.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Acute myocardial infarction is a leading cause of death worldwide. Risk factors include age, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

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