What Is Ischemia?
8. Myocardial Ischemia
Myocardial ischemia is a condition where there is obstruction of the coronary artery. This is also known as atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. It is the most common cause of death globally. The diagnosis can be difficult and many patients are often only diagnosed after experiencing a heart attack. The symptoms can range from having chest pain to having no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis includes investigations such as an electrocardiogram, stress echocardiogram, stress test, nuclear stress test, a cardiac computed tomography (CT) scan, coronary angiography, and more. The treatment goal is to improve blood flow to the heart and may involve nitrates, aspirin, beta blockers, statins, and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Procedures such as coronary artery bypass surgery, angioplasty, and stenting may also be recommended.
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