Can an electrocardiogram detect a heart attack when it's not occurring?

Apr 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

Myocardial infarction (MI) usually refers to the death of heart muscle tissue. When a myocardial infarction is not occurring, it generally cannot be detected by an electrocardiogram (ECG). During an MI episode, ECG findings typically show a dynamic evolution including tall, peaked T waves, ST-segment elevation with a convex upward curve, inverted T waves, and pathological Q waves. However, if a myocardial infarction is not currently happening, these characteristic changes in the heart muscle do not occur, so the ECG will not reveal any abnormalities.

Myocardial infarction usually refers to a heart attack. When a heart attack is not occurring, it generally cannot be detected by an electrocardiogram (ECG).

A myocardial infarction occurs when blood flow in the coronary arteries is suddenly reduced or interrupted, leading to severe and prolonged ischemia of the heart muscle, resulting in ischemic necrosis of the myocardium. During an acute episode of this condition, ECG examination typically shows a series of dynamic changes, including tall T waves, ST-segment elevation with a convex upward curve, inverted T waves, and pathological Q waves. However, if a myocardial infarction is not currently occurring, these characteristic myocardial changes will not be present, so the condition cannot be detected via ECG.

After experiencing a myocardial infarction, strictly following medical advice regarding medication, actively improving lifestyle habits, maintaining a light diet, quitting alcohol, and regularly monitoring blood glucose levels can usually help prevent recurrence of the disease.

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