What is septal infarct?
A septal infarct is an area of dead tissue in the septum, the wall that separates the two atria of the heart. It is caused by a lack of blood flow to the septum, which can occur during a heart attack. A septal infarct can lead to a number of complications, including heart failure, arrhythmias, and stroke.
Causes of septal infarct
The most common cause of a septal infarct is a heart attack. During a heart attack, the blood flow to the heart is blocked, which can damage the heart muscle. If the blockage occurs in the arteries that supply blood to the septum, a septal infarct can occur.
Other causes of septal infarct include:
* Trauma: A severe injury to the chest can damage the heart and lead to a septal infarct.
* Infection: An infection of the heart, such as endocarditis, can damage the heart muscle and lead to a septal infarct.
* Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with heart defects that can increase the risk of a septal infarct.
Symptoms of septal infarct
The symptoms of a septal infarct can vary depending on the size and location of the infarct. Some common symptoms include:
* Chest pain: Chest pain is the most common symptom of a septal infarct. The pain is typically described as crushing or squeezing, and it may be accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting.
* Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath is another common symptom of a septal infarct. This is because the septal infarct can damage the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure.
* Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms. They can occur as a result of a septal infarct because the infarct can damage the electrical system of the heart.
* Stroke: A stroke can occur if a septal infarct blocks the flow of blood to the brain.
Treatment for septal infarct
The treatment for a septal infarct depends on the size and location of the infarct, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:
* Medications: Medications can be used to treat the symptoms of a septal infarct, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and arrhythmias.
* Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to repair a septal infarct if it is causing significant problems, such as heart failure or stroke.
Prognosis for septal infarct
The prognosis for a septal infarct depends on the size and location of the infarct, as well as the patient's overall health. With proper treatment, most people with a septal infarct can recover and live a full and active life.