Myocardial infarction is the death of heart cells or lack of blood supply to the heart due to a total or partial severe obstruction of the coronary artery.
Risk factors. Tobacco, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolaemia or the presence of family ischemic heart disease are all major risk factors.
Prevention. Not smoking. Following a healthy diet and, specifically, the Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, legumes, vegetables, cereals, nuts, fish, olive oil, low in saturated fat and moderate wine consumption. Physical exercise is essential.
Symptoms. Chest pain or pain in the arm and shoulder (especially in the left), shortness of breath, sweating, paleness and dizziness.
Treatment. Call emergency services as quickly as possible. Acetylsalicylic acid intake is important.