Q. What is myocardial infarction, and how does it occur?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a serious medical condition that occurs when there's a sudden interruption of blood supply to a part of the heart muscle. This interruption usually happens because one of the coronary arteries, responsible for supplying blood to the heart, becomes blocked.
The main culprit behind this blockage is the accumulation of fatty deposits called plaque within the coronary arteries. When this plaque ruptures or a blood clot forms within it, it can obstruct the artery, cutting off the oxygen and nutrients that the heart muscle needs to function properly.
Here's how it happens step by step:
1. Plaque Buildup: Over time, factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes can lead to the buildup of plaque on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. This process is called atherosclerosis.
2. Plaque Rupture: Sometimes, the plaque can become unstable, leading to its rupture. This rupture can expose the inner core of the plaque, which contains substances that promote blood clot formation.
3. Blood Clot Formation: When the plaque ruptures, it triggers the body's clotting response. A blood clot, also known as a thrombus, starts forming at the site of the plaque rupture.
4. Artery Blockage: As the blood clot grows, it can completely block the coronary artery. This blockage prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle downstream.
5. Heart Muscle Damage: Without oxygen, the heart muscle begins to suffer damage. The longer the blood supply is blocked, the more extensive the damage can be. This is why prompt medical intervention is critical during a heart attack.
The symptoms of myocardial infarction can vary from person to person but often include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, and pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back.
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