What are the manifestations of myocardial ischemia?
Disease description:
My father is getting older now, and his heart has not been in good condition. He has recently been diagnosed with coronary heart disease. The doctor mentioned upon discharge that we should be cautious about the occurrence of myocardial ischemia. I would like to ask, what are the usual symptoms of myocardial ischemia?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Myocardial ischemia usually refers to reduced blood perfusion to the heart, leading to insufficient oxygen supply to the myocardium. This condition may be caused by coronary artery disease (such as atherosclerosis) or other factors, such as severe arrhythmias, heart valve disease, myocarditis, and others. The main manifestations of myocardial ischemia include the following:
1. Chest tightness and shortness of breath: After physical activity or strenuous exercise, patients may experience chest tightness, palpitations, and dyspnea, which are caused by inadequate blood supply to the heart. Patients with severe myocardial ischemia may also experience difficulty breathing and may require sitting upright to breathe.
2. Chest pain: Patients with myocardial ischemia often experience a feeling of pressure or tightness behind the sternum or in the precordial area during physical exertion or emotional stress. The pain may radiate to the left shoulder and left upper arm, typically lasting 3-5 minutes and resolving spontaneously with rest.
3. Fatigue: Particularly in female patients, unusual fatigue may occur, with exhaustion even after mild physical activity.
4. Palpitations: A sensation of rapid or slow heartbeat, sometimes accompanied by chest tightness or dizziness.
