- With Mayo Clinic cardiologist
Martha Grogan, M.D.
read biographyclose windowBiography of
Martha Grogan, M.D.
Martha Grogan, M.D.
Dr. Martha Grogan is board-certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular diseases. She is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, and received her medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School. Dr. Grogan has been on staff at Mayo Clinic since 1995 and is a consultant in the Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and is an assistant professor of medicine at Mayo Medical School.
Dr. Grogan is a noninvasive cardiologist specializing in heart failure, adult congenital heart disease and echocardiography. She has witnessed firsthand the importance of patient education in the treatment of diseases such as congestive heart failure and is excited about the tremendous educational opportunities now available through the Internet.
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Question
Cardiac ischemia
What is cardiac ischemia? How serious is it?
Answer
from Martha Grogan, M.D.
Cardiac ischemia occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle (myocardium) is decreased by a partial or complete blockage of a coronary artery. A sudden, severe blockage may lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Cardiac ischemia may also cause a serious abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), which can cause fainting or even sudden death.
Typical signs and symptoms of cardiac ischemia include:
- Chest pain (angina pectoris)
- Neck or jaw pain
- Arm pain
- Clammy skin
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and vomiting
In some people, especially those with diabetes, cardiac ischemia may cause no signs or symptoms.
A doctor may make a diagnosis of cardiac ischemia based on:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Electrocardiogram
- Stress test
- X-rays of coronary arteries (coronary angiogram)
Treatment is directed at improving blood flow to the heart muscle and may include:
- Medication such as aspirin, beta blockers and nitrates. During a heart attack, thrombolytic agents, or "clot-busters," may be used.
- Angioplasty or stent placement (percutaneous coronary intervention, or PCI).
- Coronary artery bypass surgery.
Exercise may improve blood flow to the heart muscle after the condition is stabilized.
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