Heart Muscle Ischemia: How Serious Is It And What Are The Treatment Options?

Heart muscle ischemia, also known as myocardial ischemia, occurs when the blood flow to the heart is reduced, preventing the heart muscle from receiving enough oxygen. This condition can lead to chest pain (angina) and, in severe cases, heart attack. To evaluate the severity of myocardial ischemia, doctors often use diagnostic tools such as treadmill stress tests and cardiac ECT (emission computed tomography) scans. These tests help assess how the heart functions under physical stress and whether there are areas of reduced blood flow or diminished heart muscle activity.

Diagnosis Through Coronary Angiography

For a more accurate diagnosis, patients may undergo a coronary angiography procedure. This minimally invasive test allows doctors to examine the three main coronary arteries on the heart's surface and determine if one or more arteries have narrowed. If the narrowing is more than 50%, it is typically diagnosed as coronary artery disease (CAD), which often indicates significant myocardial ischemia. When the blockage reaches 70% to 75%, stent placement may be recommended to open the blocked artery and restore proper blood flow.

Treatment Options Based On Severity

Many patients with mild myocardial ischemia can manage their symptoms effectively with prescribed medications. If chest pain and shortness of breath are well-controlled with medication, the ischemia is generally considered less severe. However, for a more precise evaluation, treadmill stress tests and cardiac ECT scans are still recommended to monitor heart function and detect any progression of the condition.

When To Consider Immediate Intervention

In cases where symptoms such as chest pain and tightness are frequent and severe, doctors may skip initial stress tests and proceed directly to coronary angiography. This allows for immediate intervention if necessary, including stent placement to open the blocked arteries. After stabilizing the patient's condition, follow-up tests like treadmill exams and cardiac ECT can be scheduled to ensure long-term heart health and proper treatment planning.