Patient Education
Silent Ischemia

Silent ischemia occurs when a person experiences a temporary shortage of blood to the heart without experiencing the feeling of chest pain (angina pectoris). The temporary blood shortage (ischemia) is caused by a narrowing or blockage of an artery which prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle. Severe ischemia, or one that lasts too long, can result in a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Myocardial infarction results in the destruction of heart tissue and leads to weakened heart muscle, which is the most common cause of heart failure in the United States.

In addition to destroying heart tissue, silent ischemia can also disrupt the regular rhythm of the heart. Abnormal heart rhythm such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia can disrupt the ability of the heart to pump blood. Thiscan lead to fainting or cardiac death.