Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. This can happen as a result of coronary artery disease, where the arteries become narrowed or blocked. A heart attack is a medical emergency and can be fatal.

Symptoms of a myocardial infarction include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to call 911 immediately. Treatment for a heart attack typically includes medication and lifestyle changes

Myocardial infarction definition

A heart attack (medically known as a myocardial infarction) is a deadly medical emergency where your heart muscle begins to die because it isn’t getting enough blood flow. A blockage in the arteries that supply blood to your heart usually causes this.

10 Symptoms of A Myocardial Infarction

A myocardial infarction, better known as a heart attack, is a serious medical emergency. It occurs when the blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a clot. This can happen if the arteries that supply blood to the heart become hard and narrow from a build-up of plaque. A heart attack can be fatal, but with early detection and treatment, many people survive and go on to live healthy lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately:

Chest pain or discomfort

If you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as this could be a sign of a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Chest pain or discomfort is usually described as a feeling of tightness, pressure, or squeezing in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes. It may also be accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and/or lightheadedness. If you have any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away.

Shortness of breath

If you are experiencing shortness of breath, it is important to seek medical attention right away as this is a symptom of a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Shortness of breath can be caused by a buildup of fluid in the lungs or an obstruction in the airways. A heart attack can cause both of these problems and should be treated as a medical emergency.

Pain in the jaw, neck, or back

One of the most common symptoms of a myocardial infarction is pain in the jaw, neck, or back. This pain is often described as a crushing or burning sensation and can radiate from the chest to the arms, shoulders, and back. The pain may be aggravated by deep breathing, coughing, or lying down. Other common symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and lightheadedness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Nausea or vomiting

Nausea or vomiting is not a common symptom of a myocardial infarction (heart attack), but it can occur. If you experience nausea or vomiting along with other symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Nausea and vomiting may be caused by the increased heart rate and pressure in the chest during a heart attack. They may also be caused by medications used to treat a heart attack, such as nitroglycerin.

Fatigue

One symptom of a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, is fatigue. This fatigue can be experienced as a general sense of tiredness or exhaustion, even when you have gotten a full night’s sleep. You may find it difficult to perform your usual activities or exercise, and you may tire more easily than usual.

Fatigue caused by a heart attack may be accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms along with fatigue, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately as they may indicate a more serious condition.

Lightheadedness or dizziness

If you experience lightheadedness or dizziness during a myocardial infarction, it is most likely due to a drop in blood pressure. This can be caused by the loss of blood and fluid from the heart muscle. It can also be caused by the stress of the situation. If you are experiencing lightheadedness or dizziness, sit down and put your head between your knees. This will help to increase the blood flow to your brain. If you are still feeling lightheaded or dizzy after a few minutes, call 911.

Sweating

When you have a myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack, one of the symptoms you may experience is sweating. This can happen all over your body or just in certain areas, such as your palms or forehead. The sweating may be mild or profuse, and it may occur suddenly or gradually. It can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as anxiety, nausea, or chest pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially chest pain, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Palpitations

When you have a myocardial infarction (heart attack), it is not uncommon to experience palpitations. Palpitations are defined as an abnormal awareness of your own heartbeat. You may feel like your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too hard or fast. In some cases, palpitations can be painful.

Palpitations are usually caused by an irregularity in the heart’s electrical conduction system. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including damage to the heart from a heart attack, inflammation of the heart muscle, or electrolyte abnormalities. In rare cases, palpitations can be caused by a tumor or other growth in the chest.

If you are experiencing palpitations, it is important to seek medical attention right away as they can be a sign of a serious underlying condition. Your doctor will likely order an electrocardiogram (ECG) to rule out any cardiac abnormalities that may be causing your symptoms.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common symptom of a myocardial infarction (heart attack). It can feel like a sense of impending doom or an intense fearfulness. You may also feel shortness of breath, chest pain, or nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Heartburn

Heartburn, or indigestion, is a common symptom of a myocardial infarction. It may feel like a burning sensation in the chest or throat, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or belching. Heartburn is caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, and is a common symptom of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

Conclusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help immediately as they could be indicative of a myocardial infarction. While some of the symptoms may seem mild at first, they can quickly escalate and become life-threatening. Don’t delay in getting the medical attention you need — it could save your life.