The tissue death (
infarct) of a section of the heart muscle, usually as a result of reduced blood flow to the heart, which can be caused by blood clots, especially in arteries narrowed by
arteriosclerosis. Commonly referred to as a
heart attack. Symptoms include chest pain (often radiating into the left arm) and shortness of breath.
Electrocardiograms, or
EKG/ECGs are often used to diagnose MIs, which are then treated with
thrombolytic (clot-dissolving) drugs,
angioplasty, or even coronary bypass surgery. Myocardial infarctions are serious, life-threatening occurences, and while there is a
genetic predisposition for them, the vast majority could be prevented simply by
eating right, not
smoking, and getting regular
exercise.
For more information, I recommend:
HeartInfo - http://www.heartinfo.org/
Infarct Combat Project - http://www.infarctcombat.org/