REINFARCTION Meaning and
Definition
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Reinfarction is a medical term used to describe a recurring or subsequent heart attack, specifically referring to the occurrence of a second heart attack after a previous one has already taken place. It is a compound word derived from the combination of the prefix "re-" meaning "again" or "repeat," and "infarction," which is the medical term for the death of tissue due to inadequate blood supply.
During a heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become blocked, resulting in tissue damage or death. Following the initial heart attack, there is a potential for reinfarction if further blockages or new blockages occur in the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow and leading to additional myocardial tissue death.
Reinfarction presents similar symptoms to an initial heart attack, such as chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea, and sweating. Individuals who have previously experienced a heart attack are at a higher risk of reinfarction due to the existing damage to their heart and potential for remaining blockages in the coronary arteries.
Prompt medical intervention is crucial in cases of reinfarction, as immediate treatment can help minimize further damage, enhance the chances of recovery, and potentially prevent life-threatening complications. Medical professionals will assess the patient's condition through diagnostic tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and possibly coronary angiography, in order to determine the appropriate course of treatment, which may include medications, angioplasty, or bypass surgery to restore blood flow to the heart muscle.
Etymology of REINFARCTION
The word "reinfarction" is derived from two main components: "re-" and "infarction".
1. "Re-" is a prefix of Latin origin, meaning "again" or "back". It is used to indicate repetition, renewal, or return to a previous state.
2. "Infarction" comes from the Latin word "infarctio", which means "stuffing" or "blockage". It is derived from the verb "infarcire", which means "to stuff" or "to cram". In medical terminology, "infarction" refers to the obstruction of blood flow to an organ or tissue resulting in tissue damage or cell death.
