Cardiac infarction, commonly referred to as a heart attack, is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is obstructed, leading to tissue damage or death. It is predominantly caused by the blockage of a coronary artery, the blood vessels responsible for supplying the heart with oxygen and nutrients.
During a cardiac infarction, a blood clot or a build-up of fatty deposits, known as plaque, can disrupt the flow of blood through the coronary artery. As a result, the affected portion of the heart muscle becomes deprived of oxygen, leading to ischemia (insufficient blood supply) and subsequent injury.
Symptoms of cardiac infarctions can manifest suddenly and include, but are not limited to, extreme chest pain or discomfort that may radiate to the left arm, jaw, or back; shortness of breath; excessive sweating; nausea; and lightheadedness. These symptoms typically require immediate medical attention to prevent further damage to the heart.
Treatment for cardiac infarctions usually involves restoring blood flow to the affected area. This can be achieved through interventions such as medication therapy, angioplasty (which involves widening the narrowed artery and placing a stent), or, in severe cases, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to bypass the blocked artery.
Prevention of cardiac infarctions is often focused on managing risk factors such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco use, and managing conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
Cardiac infarctions are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and timely recognition, diagnosis, and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing long-term complications.
