Myocardial Infarction Vs Heart Attack

Myocardial Infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked for a long enough time that part of the heart muscle is damaged or dies. This blockage is often caused by the buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the coronary arteries, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea, and it requires immediate medical attention to restore blood flow and minimize heart damage.

A heart attack is a medical emergency characterized by the abrupt interruption of blood supply to the heart, resulting in the injury or death of heart muscle tissue. While the terms 'myocardial infarction' and 'heart attack' are often used interchangeably, a heart attack specifically refers to the clinical event that arises from myocardial infarction. Timely intervention, such as medication to dissolve clots or surgical procedures like angioplasty, is critical for improving outcomes and preserving heart function.