Most MIs occur due to coronary artery disease. Risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, high blood cholesterol, poor diet, and excessive alcohol intake, among others. The mechanism of an MI often involves the complete blockage of a coronary artery caused by a rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque. MIs are less commonly caused by coronary artery spasms, which may be due to cocaine, significant emotional stress, and extreme cold, among others. A number of tests are useful to help with diagnosis, including electrocardiograms (ECGs), blood tests, and coronary angiography. An ECG may confirm an ST elevation MI if ST elevation is present. Commonly used blood tests include troponin and less often creatine kinase MB. COUNT 5
QSN1 What can ECG confirm? ANS1 ST elevation QSN2 What type of blood tests are used? ANS2 troponin QSN3 How do most MIs come about? ANS3 coronary artery disease QSN4 What is the main mechanism for MI? ANS4 complete blockage of a coronary artery QSN5 Name one test used to recognize MI? ANS5 electrocardiograms (ECGs), blood tests, and coronary angiography