What is another name for a heart attack?

A heart attack is medically known as a myocardial infarction. This term describes the process in which blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a clot, leading to damage to the heart muscle. The term "myocardial" refers to the heart muscle, and "infarction" refers to tissue death due to lack of blood supply. Recognizing this terminology is essential for understanding the underlying mechanisms of heart disease and the importance of timely medical intervention during such events.

In contrast, cardiac arrest refers to the sudden loss of heart function, which can occur as a result of a heart attack but is not the same condition. A stroke involves a disruption of blood flow to the brain, while angina is characterized by chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle but does not signify a heart attack. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate communication in medical settings and effective patient care.