NSTEMI Medical Abbreviation

NSTEMI stands for Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction — a type of heart attack that occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced but not completely blocked.

What Is NSTEMI?

An NSTEMI happens when the heart’s oxygen demand exceeds the supply, often due to a partial blockage in one or more coronary arteries. Unlike a STEMI, which causes a full blockage and visible changes on an ECG, NSTEMI causes heart damage without classic ECG patterns.

Important: NSTEMI is still a medical emergency that requires immediate evaluation and treatment to prevent further heart muscle damage or a full-blown STEMI.

NSTEMI Symptoms

The most common symptom is chest discomfort, which may feel like:

• Pressure or squeezing

• Heaviness or fullness in the chest

• Pain that may radiate to the arm, neck, jaw, or back

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue, nausea, or light-headedness (especially in women and older adults)

How NSTEMI Is Diagnosed

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Shows no ST-segment elevation (unlike STEMI).

• Blood tests: Elevated troponin levels indicate damage to the heart muscle.

• Imaging tests: Echocardiogram or coronary angiography may be used for further assessment.

NSTEMI Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of blockage and symptoms but may include:

• Antiplatelet medications (like aspirin or clopidogrel)

• Blood thinners (e.g. heparin)

• Beta-blockers to reduce heart strain

• Statins to lower cholesterol

• Coronary angioplasty or stent placement

• Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in more severe cases

  Risk Factors for NSTEMI and Coronary Artery Disease

  • Age (especially over 55 for men, 65 for women)

  • Smoking

  • Diabetes

  • High blood pressure

  • High cholesterol

  • Obesity or being overweight

  • Unhealthy diet

  • Physical inactivity

  • Family history of heart disease, stroke, or sudden cardiac death