Myocardial ischemia happens when blood flow to your heart is reduced, depriving it of the oxygen it needs, which can lead to chest pain, pressure, shortness of breath, or even fatigue. At California Cardiac Institute, we help you act early to protect your heart health.
What is Myocardial Ischemia?
Myocardial ischemia is a condition where part of your heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. This usually happens because of narrowed or blocked coronary arteries caused by plaque buildup. Without adequate blood flow, your heart cannot work as efficiently, leading to chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or fatigue. Sometimes, myocardial ischemia can occur silently without obvious symptoms, making it especially dangerous.
Signs & Symptoms of Myocardial Ischemia:
- Chest pain or pressure, often described as squeezing or heaviness
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity or stress
- Fatigue or weakness that feels unusual for your activity level
- Pain that may spread to the neck, jaw, shoulder, or arm
- Sweating, dizziness, or lightheadedness during an episode
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Silent ischemia, where no obvious symptoms are felt, but damage may still occur
What Causes Myocardial Ischemia?
Myocardial ischemia occurs when your heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood to function properly. This usually happens because the coronary arteries that supply your heart become narrowed or blocked. Reduced blood flow forces your heart to work harder, especially during exertion or stress. Several risk factors may increase your likelihood of developing it:
- Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the coronary arteries
- Blood clots that block the coronary blood flow
- Severe coronary artery spasm (temporary narrowing)
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- High cholesterol levels
- Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking or excessive alcohol use
- Family history of heart disease
- Chronic stress or poor diet
Heart Conditions Can't Wait
If myocardial ischemia is left untreated, the reduced blood flow can cause lasting damage to your heart muscle. Over time, this may lead to heart attacks, heart failure, arrhythmias, or even sudden cardiac death. Silent cases of ischemia are especially dangerous because you may not notice symptoms until complications occur. Early intervention is key to protecting your heart and preventing long-term damage.
How is Myocardial Ischemia Diagnosed and Treated?
When you visit us for a consultation, we begin by listening to your symptoms and medical history. Our physicians then perform a thorough physical exam and may order diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress testing, echocardiogram, or advanced imaging like a cardiac PET scan, which maps your entire heart for early and accurate detection. Once we have a clear picture of your condition, we create a personalized treatment plan.
Depending on your needs, treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation
- Medications to improve blood flow and reduce risk factors
- Noninvasive therapies like external counterpulsation (ECP)
- Interventional procedures, including angioplasty or stent placement
- Surgical options such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
Schedule Your Consultation
California Cardiac Institute is dedicated to helping you protect your heart with advanced diagnostics and preventive care. If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, we encourage you to come in for a consultation and treatment. Our state-of-the-art imaging center includes a cardiac PET scan to map the entire heart for early diagnosis. We offer same-day appointments and accept walk-ins: schedule your consultation for myocardial ischemia in Glendale today and safeguard your health.
