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STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction)

Caused by complete occlusion of a coronary artery, this is a medical emergency requiring intervention within minutes.

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 STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction)?

STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) is the most severe form of heart attack, in which a coronary artery becomes completely occluded because of atherosclerotic plaque rupture and overlying thrombus.

Characteristic ST elevation is seen on the ECG; this is the critical finding that triggers acute intervention. Consistent with the 'time is muscle' principle, the earlier the occlusion is reopened, the less heart-muscle damage occurs.

The gold standard of treatment is primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) with a door-to-balloon time under 90 minutes. When this is not possible, thrombolytic therapy is administered.

Symptoms

Severe and persistent chest pain or pressure (lasting more than 30 minutes)
Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, or epigastrium
Profuse sweating and pallor
Nausea and vomiting
A sense of impending doom and severe anxiety
Altered consciousness or fainting (in severe cases)

Risk Factors

Smoking, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia
Diabetes and obesity
Family history of early heart attack
Male sex and advanced age
Prior coronary event

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Call emergency services the moment severe chest pain begins — minutes matter
  • If pain is accompanied by sweating, nausea, or altered consciousness
  • Go to the hospital by ambulance, not by private vehicle
  • For any new severe chest pain in patients with known heart disease

Treatment Methods

01
Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (balloon + stent) — the most effective therapy
02
Thrombolytic therapy (if pPCI is not available within the first 12 hours)
03
Aspirin, a P2Y12 inhibitor, and anticoagulant initiation
04
Intensive-care monitoring, arrhythmia surveillance, and supportive care
05
Cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention after discharge

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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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.