Types of Heart Attacks

Types of Heart Attacks

When blood flow is blocked in an artery that nourishes the heart, the result is damage to heart muscle cells. The resulting injury or death of the heart muscle is called a heart attack (myocardial infarction).

There are three major types of heart attacks. Each has its own specific risk factors and a unique diagnosis.





STEMI: The Most Serious Type of Heart Attack

A STEMI, or ST-elevation myocardial infarction, is a severe heart attack caused by a blockage in a coronary artery that completely interrupts the flow of blood to a large portion of the heart. It is usually caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances in plaque on the inner lining of the coronary artery.

NSTEMI: Not as Serious as a STEMI

Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction, or NSTEMI, is a heart attack that causes a reduction in blood flow to the heart that is less sudden and severe than a STEMI. It is typically caused by plaque buildup, but is sometimes caused by a spasm of the coronary artery.

SCAD: Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection

A rare type of heart attack, spontaneous coronary artery dissection occurs when a tear forms in the wall of a coronary artery that is not caused by a blockage. SCAD is not as serious as a STEMI or NSTEMI, but it can still cause serious damage to the heart.

Recovery varies from person to person, depending on the type of heart attack and how it was treated. Most people recover without major problems within a few weeks, and many can resume normal activities after treatment is complete. wearable alarm for elderly