Acute Myocardial Infarction: Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors

Acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when a portion of the heart muscle experiences prolonged or severe ischemia and hypoxia, leading to tissue necrosis. This typically happens in individuals with pre-existing coronary artery narrowing due to atherosclerosis. When a plaque within the artery becomes unstable and ruptures, it triggers the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) which can completely block the artery, cutting off blood supply to the heart. This process is the most common cause of acute myocardial infarction.

Other Potential Causes and Triggers

In some cases, heart attacks can also be triggered by coronary artery spasm, which leads to a sudden and severe reduction in blood flow to the heart muscle. Several external and internal factors can provoke such events, including excessive physical exertion, heavy labor, intense emotional stress, heavy smoking or alcohol consumption, overeating, and even severe constipation in elderly patients. These triggers can significantly increase the workload on the heart or cause sudden changes in coronary blood flow.

Symptoms and Serious Complications

Common Clinical Manifestations

Following a heart attack, patients often experience classic symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration but are typically persistent and severe.

Life-Threatening Complications

More serious complications may include acute circulatory failure, shock, hypotension, fainting, and dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Among these, ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation are particularly concerning, as they can rapidly lead to sudden cardiac death. Due to the high risk of mortality, acute myocardial infarction is classified as a critical medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.