What is Silent Ischemia?

What is silent ischemia and how does it relate to heart disease? Ischemia itself is a condition known for the restriction of blood flow to a particular part of the body. In the case of chronic ischemic heart disease, blood flow is restricted to the heart muscle. Chronic ischemic heart disease is the name given to overall heart problems that is caused by a narrowing of the heart’s arteries. Ischemia can cause chest pain and the same discomfort related to angina.

What is silent ischemia? Reports have indicated that over three million Americans experience ischemic episodes with no symptoms. These people experience episodes without pain and as a result experience a heart attack with no warning. Most people ask what is silent ischemia and the answer is very straight forward. There is no pain or symptoms related to this condition.

People who have experienced previous heart attacks are more prone to heart disease. Those who have diabetes are at a much higher risk than most for the development of silent ischemia. Doctors will recommend various tests be done to monitor episodes. An exercise stress test may be encouraged or patients can wear a Holter monitor to measure the electrocardiogram for a 24-48 hour period. These two tests can be used to diagnose silent ischemia episodes and indicate if there is a problem the person should be aware of. Other tests may also be recommended by the heart specialist and in some cases, more than one might be required to make a proper diagnosis.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.