Non ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)
What is Non ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction?
Non ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) is a type of myocardial infarction (heart attack) that is caused by a partial blockage of one or more coronary arteries. This blockage, also referred to as a coronary artery spasm, prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. NSTEMI is not as severe as ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), also referred to as a full heart attack.
Symptoms of NSTEMI
NSTEMI can cause mild to severe chest pain, usually between the shoulder blades. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, palpitations, and lightheadedness. Depending on the amount of blockage, the symptoms can be unpredictable and can come and go.
Risk Factors for NSTEMI
Risk factors for NSTEMI include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, lack of physical activity, poor diet, age, and family history of heart disease. Other risk factors that may increase the risk of NSTEMI are certain medications, genetics, and autoimmune diseases.
Treatment of NSTEMI
Treatment of NSTEMI usually begins with lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, and quitting smoking. Medications such as aspirin and blood thinners may also be prescribed to improve blood flow to the heart and reduce the risk of future heart attacks. In more serious cases, catheterization and angioplasty may be necessary to open the blocked coronary arteries. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to restore blood flow to the heart.
Preventing NSTEMI
The best way to prevent NSTEMI is to practice a healthy lifestyle and make changes to reduce risk factors. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress. It is also important to talk to your doctor to discuss any possible risks of developing NSTEMI and discuss medications and treatments that are available to help reduce the risk.
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress
- Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor