Myocardial infarction complications

Myocardial Infarction Complications refers to the various medical conditions that can occur as a result of a myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack. These complications can be immediate or delayed, and can significantly impact the patient's prognosis and quality of life.

Immediate Complications

Arrhythmia is a common immediate complication of MI. This refers to irregular heart rhythms, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.

Cardiogenic shock is another immediate complication. This occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, leading to a severe drop in blood pressure.

Heart failure can also occur immediately after an MI. This is when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid build-up in the lungs and other parts of the body.

Delayed Complications

Post-infarction angina is a type of chest pain that can occur days or weeks after an MI. This is due to the heart muscle being damaged and unable to supply enough blood to the heart itself.

Ventricular aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the heart's ventricle that can develop weeks or months after an MI. This can lead to blood clots, arrhythmias, or even rupture of the heart wall.

Dressler syndrome is an immune system response to heart damage that can occur weeks after an MI. Symptoms include fever, chest pain, and fluid build-up around the heart.

Management and Prevention

Management of myocardial infarction complications involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgical interventions. Prevention strategies include controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, as well as adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.

See Also

• Myocardial infarction
• Cardiology
• Cardiovascular disease