ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)

ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) is one of the most serious forms of heart attack. It happens when a coronary artery becomes suddenly and completely blocked, usually because of a blood clot forming over a ruptured fatty plaque. This blockage stops oxygen-rich blood from reaching part of the heart muscle, causing injury and, if untreated, permanent damage. STEMI is often identified on an electrocardiogram by characteristic ST-segment elevation in contiguous leads, and cardiac biomarkers help confirm the diagnosis.

Common symptoms include severe chest pressure, pain that may spread to the arm, jaw, or back, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and anxiety. Because the heart muscle can die quickly, STEMI requires immediate emergency care. The main goal of treatment is rapid restoration of blood flow, usually through primary percutaneous coronary intervention, while fibrinolysis may be used when timely PCI is not available. Early recognition and treatment improve survival and lower the risk of complications such as heart failure, shock, and arrhythmias.