Sydäniskemia

Sydäniskemia, also known as myocardial ischemia, is a condition characterized by insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle. This reduced blood flow typically occurs due to a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which are responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the heart. The most common cause of this narrowing is atherosclerosis, a process where plaque builds up inside the arteries.

When the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen, it can lead to various symptoms, the most notable being angina pectoris, a type of chest pain or discomfort. This pain can radiate to the arm, jaw, neck, or back. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and sweating. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary greatly depending on the extent of the blockage and the individual's overall health.

Sydäniskemia can be transient, meaning it occurs intermittently, or it can be persistent. Prolonged and severe ischemia can lead to myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, where heart muscle tissue is damaged or dies due to a lack of oxygen. Risk factors for developing sydäniskemia include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Family history of heart disease and age are also significant factors.

Diagnosis of sydäniskemia typically involves a medical history, physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests to detect cardiac markers. Further diagnostic tests may include stress tests, echocardiography, coronary angiography, or CT angiography. Treatment strategies aim to restore blood flow to the heart muscle and manage underlying risk factors. These can include lifestyle modifications, medications such as aspirin, beta-blockers, and statins, and in some cases, procedures like angioplasty with stenting or coronary artery bypass grafting.