Myocardial Infarction - Clinical Manifestations

The clinical manifestations associated with AMI result from ischemia of the heart muscle and the decrease in function and acidosis associated with it. The major clinical manifestation of AMI is chest pain which is similar to angina pectoris but more severe and unrelieved by nitroglycerin. The pain may radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or left arm. The pain also may present near the epigastrium, simulating indigestion. AMI may also be associated with less common clinical manifestations, including the following:

• Atypical chest, stomach, back, or abdominal pain

• Nausea or dizziness

• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing

• Unexplained anxiety, weakness, or fatigue

• Palpitations, cold sweat, or paleness

Women experiencing AMI frequently present with one or more of the less common clinical manifestations.

Category: Medicine Notes