7. Myocardial Infarction

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Localised necrosis caused by obstruction to the blood supply area, causing a heart attack

Question 2

Causes:

Answer 2

IHD, coronary heart disease, congestive heart disease

Question 3

What happens:

Answer 3

Because of atherosclerotic build up in the coronary arteries. Compromises blood flow to heart, doesn’t get enough oxygen causing death of tissues and thus heart muscle. High BP causes plaque to rupture, develop thrombus big clot. Cardiomyocytes need oxygen and send pain signals, don’t get any so stop beating, rupture and start dying.

Question 4

Difference between arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis:

Answer 4

Arteriosclerosis is quicker, atherosclerosis is slow build ip of plaque and fatty lipids.

Question 5

Signs and symptoms:

Answer 5

Angina (tightness of pain in the chest), pain the arms and jaw (particularly left arm), fatigue, light headiness, abnormal heat beat, anxiety, dyspnoea.