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NSTEMI (Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction)

A form of acute coronary syndrome caused by partial occlusion of a coronary artery and resulting in heart-muscle injury.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is NSTEMI (Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction)?

NSTEMI (non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction) is a form of heart attack in which partial — not complete — occlusion of a coronary artery, or intense spasm, causes injury to heart-muscle cells. There is no ST-segment elevation on the electrocardiogram.

The key marker of injury is elevation of blood troponin. This finding distinguishes NSTEMI from unstable angina, in which troponin is not elevated. Both conditions together are referred to as acute coronary syndrome.

Although the presentation can be less dramatic than in STEMI, NSTEMI carries substantial short- and long-term mortality risk; early risk stratification and appropriate intervention are essential.

Symptoms

Chest pain or pressure at rest or with minimal exertion
Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, or back
Cold sweats and pallor
Nausea and vomiting
Shortness of breath and palpitations
Atypical symptoms in women: fatigue, upper abdominal pain, jaw pain

Risk Factors

Known coronary artery disease
Hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia
Smoking
Advanced age and male sex
Renal failure and inflammatory diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency services if chest pain lasts longer than 15 minutes
  • Go to the emergency department if chest pain begins at rest
  • If pain is accompanied by sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath
  • Patients with known cardiac disease should seek emergency evaluation for any change in symptoms

Treatment Methods

01
Urgent antiplatelet therapy (aspirin plus a P2Y12 inhibitor) and anticoagulation
02
Early invasive strategy (angiography) guided by risk stratification
03
Percutaneous coronary intervention (stent) or medical therapy
04
Long-term high-intensity statin, beta-blocker, and RAAS blockade
05
Cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle modification

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.