🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 11 (from laksa059)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa011.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack","crawl_time":1775591460,"first_indexed_time":1533015069,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,heart!www,\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack s443","src_root_hash":"6217059405564628611","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Diagnosing a Heart Attack | American Heart Association","meta_descriptions":["Learn how a heart attack is diagnosed and the various tests and procedures for heart attack diagnosis."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked.\nA heart attack can be caused by a complete or partial blockage.\nYour medical team can use blood tests and imaging tests to see what kind of heart attack you may have had.\nThe hours following a\nheart attack\n can be scary and confusing. Your health care team may be busy and focused and may not have time to explain everything that’s happening in the moment. They will try to identify the type of heart attack you’ve had and determine the best treatment options.\nYou and your family members may have questions. You may wonder about the tests and procedures that are being performed.\nHeart attack types\nA heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction, sometimes simply referred to as an “MI.” A heart attack happens when a blockage in one or more coronary arteries reduces or stops blood flow to the heart. This prevents oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle.\nThe blood vessel blockage might be complete or partial:\nSTEMI:\nSTEMI is a common name for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. It is not quickly reversed by nitroglycerin. A STEMI causes increased troponin and creatine kinase levels.\nNSTEMI:\nA non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction is when an artery is partially blocked and blood flow is greatly reduced. It causes increased troponin levels. Several medications can be used to treat this kind of heart attack.\nHeart attack diagnosis\nDiagnostic tests and procedures help your medical team determine:\nIf a heart attack occurred\nHow much your heart was damaged\nWhat degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) you might have\nThe tests help the health care team decide which treatment is needed right away. They can also help decide which lifestyle changes will you improve your heart health and prevent future medical events. There are two main ways to diagnose a heart attack: blood tests and imaging tests.\nBlood tests\ncheck for enzymes that are increased in the body after a heart attack. The most common tests are for troponin and creatine kinase.\nImaging tests\ntake pictures of your heart and surrounding parts of the body. These tests include:\nElectrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)\nEchocardiogram (Echo)\nCoronary angiogram\nHeart computed tomography (CT) scan\nHeart MRI\nExercise stress test\nPositron emission tomography (PET) scan","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack#main-content)\n\n- [Heart Attack and Stroke Symptoms](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms)\n- [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/volunteer)\n- [Learn CPR](https:\/\/cpr.heart.org\/en\/)\n- [ShopHeart](https:\/\/www.shopheart.org\/?utm_source=heart.org&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=AHA-Parent-Site-Top-Nav-Desktop)\n\nMenu\n\nClose Menu\n\n- Healthy Living\n  - [Healthy Living](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living)\n  - [Healthy Eating](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating)\n    - [Add Color](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/add-color)\n    - [Cooking Skills](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/cooking-skills)\n    - [Eat Smart](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart)\n    - [Healthy Food Facts](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/healthy-food-facts)\n    - [Heart-Check Foods](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/heart-check-foods)\n    - [Losing Weight](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/losing-weight)\n    - [Recipes](https:\/\/recipes.heart.org\/en\/)\n  - [Healthy Lifestyle](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle)\n    - [Healthy Habits](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/habits)\n    - [Life's Essential 8™](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/lifes-essential-8)\n    - [Mental Health and Well-being](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/mental-health-and-wellbeing)\n    - [Nutrition Education Lessons](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/nutrition-education-lessons)\n    - [Quit Smoking\/Tobacco\/Vaping](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/quit-smoking-tobacco)\n    - [Sleep](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/sleep)\n    - [Stress Management](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-lifestyle\/stress-management)\n  - [Fitness](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/fitness)\n    - [Fitness Basics](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/fitness\/fitness-basics)\n    - [Getting Active](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/fitness\/getting-active)\n    - [Staying Motivated](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/fitness\/staying-motivated)\n    - [Walking](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/fitness\/walking)\n  - [Pets and Your Health](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-bond-for-life-pets)\n  - [Healthy Living BEYOND Weight™ Study](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-living-beyond-weight-study)\n  - [Company Collaboration](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/company-collaboration)\n    - [Food System Strategy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/company-collaboration\/food-system-strategy)\n    - [Heart-Check Certification](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/company-collaboration\/heart-check-certification)\n    - [Workforce Well-being](https:\/\/wellbeingworksbetter.org\/en\/)\n- Health Topics\n  - [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics)\n    - [Aortic Aneurysm](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/aortic-aneurysm)\n    - [Arrhythmia](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/arrhythmia)\n    - [Atrial Fibrillation](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/atrial-fibrillation)\n    - [Cardiac Arrest](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiac-arrest)\n    - [Cardiac Rehab](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiac-rehab)\n    - [Cardiomyopathy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiomyopathy)\n    - [Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic-syndrome)\n    - [Cholesterol](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cholesterol)\n    - [Congenital Heart Disease](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/congenital-heart-defects)\n    - [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/diabetes)\n    - [Flu Prevention](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/flu-prevention)\n    - [Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack)\n    - [Heart Failure](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-failure)\n    - [Heart Murmurs](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-murmurs)\n    - [Heart Valve Disease](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-valve-problems-and-disease)\n    - [High Blood Pressure](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/high-blood-pressure)\n    - [Infective Endocarditis](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/infective-endocarditis)\n    - [Kawasaki Disease](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/kawasaki-disease)\n    - [Metabolic Syndrome](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/metabolic-syndrome)\n    - [Myocarditis](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/myocarditis)\n    - [Oral Health](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/oral-health)\n    - [Pericarditis](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/pericarditis)\n    - [Peripheral Artery Disease](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/peripheral-artery-disease)\n    - [Pulmonary Embolism](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/pulmonary-embolism)\n    - [Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/sleep-disorders)\n    - [Stroke](https:\/\/www.stroke.org\/en\/)\n    - [Venous Thromboembolism](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/venous-thromboembolism)\n    - [Weight and Obesity](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/weight-and-obesity)\n  - [Patient and Caregiver Support](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/consumer-healthcare)\n  - [Support Network Community](https:\/\/supportnetwork.heart.org\/)\n  - [Telehealth Resources](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/telehealth\/telehealth-patient-resources)\n- Professionals\n  - [Professional Resources](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional)\n  - [Professional Heart Daily](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/)\n    - [Communities]()\n    - [Education](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/education)\n    - [Guidelines & Statements](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/guidelines-and-statements)\n    - [Journals](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/journals)\n    - [Meetings](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/meetings)\n    - [Professional Membership](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/professional-membership\/become-a-member)\n    - [Research](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/research-programs)\n    - [Science News](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/science-news)\n  - [Quality Improvement](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement)\n    - [Get With The Guidelines®](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/get-with-the-guidelines)\n    - [Healthcare Certification](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/healthcare-certification)\n    - [Hemorrhagic Stroke Initiative](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/hemorrhagic-stroke)\n    - [International Quality Care](https:\/\/international.heart.org\/en\/international-healthcare-quality)\n    - [Mission: Lifeline®](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/mission-lifeline)\n    - [Mitral Valve Reference Center Award](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/mitral-valve-foundation)\n    - [Outpatient Quality Improvement](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/outpatient)\n    - [Research and Publications](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/quality-research-and-publications)\n    - [Rural Health Care Outcomes Accelerator](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/rural-healthcare-outcomes-accelerator)\n    - [Target: Aortic Stenosis™](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/target-aortic-stenosis \"Target: Aortic Stenosis® \")\n    - [Target: Heart Failure℠](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/target-heart-failure)\n    - [Target: Stroke℠](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/quality-improvement\/target-stroke)\n  - [Educators](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/educator)\n    - [Kids Health Initiatives](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/educator\/kids-health-initiatives \"Kids Health Initiatives \")\n    - [NFL PLAY 60](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/educator\/nfl-play-60)\n    - [School Programs](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/educator\/school-programs)\n    - [Teaching Gardens](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/educator\/teaching-gardens)\n  - [Data Science](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/datascience)\n  - [Health Care by Food™](https:\/\/healthcarexfood.org\/)\n  - [Million Hearts Collaboration®](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/professional\/million-hearts)\n- Get Involved\n  - [Get Involved](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved)\n  - [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/volunteer)\n    - [Volunteer Opportunities](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/volunteer\/opportunities)\n    - [Heart Club](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/volunteer\/high-school-and-college-students\/start-a-club)\n    - [Corporate Volunteer Opportunities](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/volunteer\/corporate-volunteer-opportunities)\n  - [Find an Event Near You](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/find-an-event-near-you)\n    - [CycleNation](https:\/\/www2.heart.org\/site\/SPageServer\/?pagename=cn_home)\n    - [Heart Walk](https:\/\/www2.heart.org\/site\/SPageNavigator\/HeartWalk_Landing_Page.html)\n  - [Advocate](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate)\n    - [Become an Advocate](https:\/\/heartpowered.org\/)\n    - [Federal Priorities](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/federal-priorities)\n    - [Media Advocacy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/media-advocacy)\n    - [Policy Research](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/policy-research)\n    - [State Issues](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/state-issues)\n  - [In Your Community](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/find-your-regional-office)\n  - [For Companies](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/for-companies)\n  - [Go Red for Women](https:\/\/www.goredforwomen.org\/en\/)\n- Ways to Give\n  - [Ways to Give](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give)\n    - [American Heart Challenge](https:\/\/www2.heart.org\/site\/SPageNavigator\/ahc_resources_search.html)\n    - [Cor Vitae Society](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/cor-vitae-society)\n    - [Create a Tribute Page](https:\/\/ahatribute.funraise.org\/)\n    - [Donor Advised Fund](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/planned-giving\/ways-to-give-now\/donor-advised-fund)\n    - [Fundraising Events](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/for-companies\/fundraising-events)\n    - [Gifts of Stock and Mutual Funds](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/planned-giving\/ways-to-give-now\/stock-gifts-and-mutual-funds)\n    - [Heritage Brick Walk](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/heritage-brick-walk)\n    - [Honor a Loved One](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XCBTSYZR \"Honor a Loved One\")\n    - [Kids Heart Challenge](https:\/\/www2.heart.org\/site\/SPageNavigator\/khc_resources_search.html)\n    - [Make a Crypto Gift](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/cryptocurrency)\n    - [Make a Memorial Gift](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XTPMHHQM \"Memorial Gifts\")\n    - [Monthly Giving As Seen On TV](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/monthly-giving-saves-lives \"Monthly Giving Saves Lives\")\n    - [Paul Dudley White Legacy Circle](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/planned-giving\/paul-dudley-white-legacy-circle)\n    - [Planned Giving](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/planned-giving)\n    - [Raise Your Way](https:\/\/raiseyourwayforaha.funraise.org\/)\n    - [Retail Supporters](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/life-is-why)\n    - [Social Impact Funds](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/social-impact-fund)\n    - [Wills and Trusts](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give\/planned-giving\/ways-to-leave-a-legacy\/wills-and-trusts)\n  - [Donate Once](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XMNFTTTW)\n  - [Donate Monthly](https:\/\/pages.heart.org\/drtv_helpheart?s_subsrc=site_nav)\n- About Us\n  - [About Us](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us)\n    - [2028 Impact Goal](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/2028-impact-goal)\n    - [CEO Roundtable](https:\/\/ceoroundtable.heart.org\/)\n    - [Family of Entities](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/the-heart-enterprise)\n    - [Financial Information](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/aha-financial-information)\n    - [Our First Century](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/bold-hearts-the-centennial)\n    - [Our Lifesaving History](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/history-of-the-american-heart-association)\n    - [Our Impact](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/impact-map)\n    - [Scientific Research](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/scientific-research)\n    - [Health System Transformation](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-system-transformation \"Health System Transformation\")\n  - [News and Stories](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/news)\n    - [Noticias en español](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/es\/news)\n    - [Content Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/editorial-guidelines)\n  - [International Programs](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/international-programs)\n    - [CPR Lifesavers in India](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/international-programs\/aiims)\n    - [International Gold Standard Confidence](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/international-programs\/international-gold-standard-confidence \"International Gold Standard Conference\")\n  - [Bernard J. Tyson Office of Health](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/bernard-j-tyson-office-of-health)\n    - [Advancing Health for Everyone](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/advancing-health-for-everyone)\n    - [EmPOWERED to Serve](https:\/\/www.empoweredtoserve.org\/en\/)\n    - [Well-Being Works Better](https:\/\/wellbeingworksbetter.org\/en\/)\n  - [Policy Research](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/policy-research)\n    - [Advocacy Fact Sheets](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/policy-research\/advocacy-fact-sheets)\n    - [Policy Positions](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate\/policy-research\/our-policy-positions)\n  - [American Heart Association Ventures™](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/aha-ventures)\n  - [Annual Report](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/2024-2025-annual-report)\n  - [Career Opportunities](https:\/\/heart.jobs\/?utm_campaign=heart.org-TopNav&vs=2896&utm_medium=Other&utm_source=heart.org-TopNav)\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/contact-us)\n  - [Media Newsroom](https:\/\/newsroom.heart.org\/)\n  - [Podcast Network](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/podcast-network \"Podcast Network\")\n- Learn CPR\n  - [CPR and First Aid](https:\/\/cpr.heart.org\/en\/)\n  - [Course Card Information](https:\/\/cpr.heart.org\/en\/resources\/course-card-information)\n  - [CPR Purchase Options](https:\/\/cpr.heart.org\/en\/course-catalog-search\/purchase-options)\n  - [Find A Course](https:\/\/cpr.heart.org\/en\/course-catalog-search)\n  - [Find A Training Center](https:\/\/atlas.heart.org\/)\n- - [![Facebook](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/facebook-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AmericanHeart \"American Heart Association Facebook\")\n  - [![Instagram](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/instagram-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/american_heart\/ \"American Heart Association Instagram\")\n  - [![Tik Tok](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Social\/Tiktok_grey.png?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@americanheartassociation?lang=en \"TikTok\")\n  - [![X formerly known as Twitter](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/x_aha.svg?h=54&iar=0&mw=1910&w=54&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/x.com\/American_Heart \"X formerly known as Twitter\")\n  - [![YouTube](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/youtube-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/americanheartassoc \"American Heart Association YouTube\")\n  - [![LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/linkedin-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/american-heart-association \"American Heart Association Linked In\")\n  - [![Pinterest](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/pinterest-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/americanheart\/ \"American Heart Association Pinterest\")\n\n[![American Heart Association heart and torch logo](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Header\/AHA_Full.svg?h=256&w=426&sc_lang=en&hash=202AEDB1D591881EC5D56074FDC541A3) ![American Heart Association](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Header\/AHA_icon.svg?h=90&w=70&sc_lang=en&hash=77591B08CFB60097E13610EC8BB886B6)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/)\n\n- [Donate Once](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XXRCJWZY)\n- [Donate Monthly](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XELREEAX?s_subsrc=global_nav)\n- [![donate](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/TopNav\/donateheartwhite.svg?h=20&iar=0&mw=1910&w=22&sc_lang=en)Donate](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XQTJEBWY)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/-\/media\/Project\/Common\/glyphs\/search.svg?h=24&w=24&sc_lang=en&hash=D08FBCC52BBF0949A352C134D3C04658) Search\n  \n  #####\n  Close Menu\n  \n  ## Trending Search\n  - [find my cpr card](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/search#q=find%20my%20cpr%20card)\n  - [ecard](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/search#q=ecard)\n  - [bls](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/search#q=bls)\n  - [acls](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/search#q=acls)\n  - [find my certificate](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/search#q=find%20my%20certificate)\n\n- Healthy Living\n  \n  [Healthy Living](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living)\n- Health Topics\n  \n  [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics)\n  \n  - - [Aortic Aneurysm](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/aortic-aneurysm)\n    - [Arrhythmia](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/arrhythmia)\n    - [Atrial Fibrillation](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/atrial-fibrillation)\n    - [Cardiac Arrest](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiac-arrest)\n    - [Cardiac Rehab](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiac-rehab)\n    - [Cardiomyopathy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/cardiomyopathy)\n    - 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[Home](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/)\n2. [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics)\n3. [Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack)\n4. [Diagnosing a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack)\n\n# Diagnosing a Heart Attack\n## Quick Facts\n- A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked.\n- A heart attack can be caused by a complete or partial blockage.\n- Your medical team can use blood tests and imaging tests to see what kind of heart attack you may have had.\n\nThe hours following a [heart attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks) can be scary and confusing. Your health care team may be busy and focused and may not have time to explain everything that’s happening in the moment. They will try to identify the type of heart attack you’ve had and determine the best treatment options.\n\nYou and your family members may have questions. You may wonder about the tests and procedures that are being performed.\n\n## Heart attack types\nA heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction, sometimes simply referred to as an “MI.” A heart attack happens when a blockage in one or more coronary arteries reduces or stops blood flow to the heart. This prevents oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle.\n\nThe blood vessel blockage might be complete or partial:\n\n- **STEMI:** STEMI is a common name for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. It is not quickly reversed by nitroglycerin. A STEMI causes increased troponin and creatine kinase levels.\n- **NSTEMI:** A non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction is when an artery is partially blocked and blood flow is greatly reduced. It causes increased troponin levels. Several medications can be used to treat this kind of heart attack.\n## Heart attack diagnosis\nDiagnostic tests and procedures help your medical team determine:\n\n- If a heart attack occurred\n- How much your heart was damaged\n- What degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) you might have\n\nThe tests help the health care team decide which treatment is needed right away. They can also help decide which lifestyle changes will you improve your heart health and prevent future medical events. There are two main ways to diagnose a heart attack: blood tests and imaging tests.\n\n**Blood tests** check for enzymes that are increased in the body after a heart attack. The most common tests are for troponin and creatine kinase.\n\n**Imaging tests** take pictures of your heart and surrounding parts of the body. These tests include:\n\n- [Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/electrocardiogram)\n- [Echocardiogram (Echo)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/echocardiogram)\n- [Coronary angiogram](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/coronary-angiogram)\n- [Heart computed tomography (CT) scan](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-computed-tomography)\n- [Heart MRI](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-mri)\n- [Exercise stress test](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/exercise-stress-test)\n- [Positron emission tomography (PET) scan](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/myocardial-perfusion-imaging)\n***\nLast Reviewed: Feb 21, 2025\n\n[![X formerly known as Twitter](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/x_color.svg?h=54&iar=0&mw=1910&w=54&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/x.com\/intent\/post?url=https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) [![Facebook](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/facebook.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) [![LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/linkedin.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?url=https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) [![Email](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Social\/mail.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](mailto:?subject=Diagnosing%20a%20Heart%20Attack&body=https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack)\n\n![Copy site URL to your clipboard](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Social\/copylink.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)\n\n[![Print](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Social\/print.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack)\n\n## Heart Attack Tools and Resources\n- [What Are the Warning Signs of Heart Attack? (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Answers-by-Heart\/What-Are-the-Warning-Signs-of-Heart-Attack.pdf \"What Are the Warning Signs of Heart Attack? (PDF)\")\n- [What is a Heart Attack? (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Answers-by-Heart\/What-is-a-Heart-Attack.pdf?sc_lang=en \"What is a Heart Attack? (PDF)\")\n- [How Will I Recover? (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Answers-by-Heart\/How-Will-I-Recover-From-My-Heart-Attack.pdf \"How Will I Recover? (PDF)\")\n- [Heart Attack Discharge Worksheet (Spanish) (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Cardiac-Rehab\/Heart-Attack-Discharge-Sheet-Spanish.pdf \"Heart Attack Discharge Worksheet (Spanish) (PDF)\")\n- [5 Ways to Lower Your Risk of a Second Heart Attack - Spanish (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Heart-Attack\/5-Steps-to-Prevent-Heart-Attack-Spanish.pdf \"5 Ways to Lower Your Risk of a Second Heart Attack -&nbsp; Spanish (PDF)\")\n- [Cardiac Rehab Referral Card (Spanish) (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Cardiac-Rehab\/CR-Referral-Card-Spanish.pdf?sc_lang=en \"Cardiac Rehab Referral Card (Spanish) (PDF)\")\n- [Common Heart Attack Warning Signs (PDF)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Files\/Health-Topics\/Heart-Attack\/Heart-Attack-warning-signs-infographic.pdf?sc_lang=en \"Common Heart Attack Warning Signs (PDF)\")\n\n[Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack)\n\n[Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack)\n\n- [About Heart Attacks](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks)\n  - [Acute Coronary Syndrome](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks\/acute-coronary-syndrome)\n  - [Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks\/heart-attack-or-sudden-cardiac-arrest-how-are-they-different)\n  - [Coronary Artery Dissection](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks\/coronary-artery-dissection-not-just-a-heart-attack)\n  - [Ischemic Heart Disease](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks\/silent-ischemia-and-ischemic-heart-disease)\n- [Warning Signs of a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack)\n  - [Heart Attack Symptoms in Women](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack\/heart-attack-symptoms-in-women)\n- [Angina (Chest Pain)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain)\n  - [Stable Angina](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/angina-pectoris-stable-angina)\n  - [Unstable Angina](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/unstable-angina)\n  - [Prinzmetal Angina](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/prinzmetal-angina)\n  - [Refractory Angina](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/refractory-angina)\n  - [Microvascular Angina](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/microvascular-angina)\n  - [Coronary Microvascular Disease](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/coronary-microvascular-disease-mvd)\n  - [Angina in Women vs Men](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/angina-in-women-can-be-different-than-men)\n  - [Heartburn or Heart Attack?](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/angina-chest-pain\/heartburn-or-heart-attack)\n- [Understand Your Risks to Prevent a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/understand-your-risks-to-prevent-a-heart-attack)\n- [Diagnosing a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack)\n  - [CAC Test](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cac-test)\n  - [Cardiac Catheterization](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-catheterization)\n  - [Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-computed-tomography)\n  - [Cardiac MRI](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-mri)\n  - [Chest X-Ray](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/chest-xray)\n  - [Coronary Angiogram](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/coronary-angiogram)\n  - [Echocardiogram (Echo)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/echocardiogram)\n  - [Electrocardiogram (EKG)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/electrocardiogram)\n  - [Exercise Stress Test](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/exercise-stress-test)\n  - [Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: PET and SPECT](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/myocardial-perfusion-imaging)\n  - [Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/transesophageal-echocardiography)\n- [Heart Attack Treatment](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/treatment-of-a-heart-attack)\n  - [Heart Medications](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/treatment-of-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-medications)\n  - [Aspirin and Dual Antiplatelet Therapy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/treatment-of-a-heart-attack\/aspirin-and-heart-disease)\n  - [Heart Procedures and Surgeries](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/treatment-of-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-procedures-and-surgeries)\n  - [Stents](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/treatment-of-a-heart-attack\/stent)\n  - [Implantable Medical Devices](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/treatment-of-a-heart-attack\/implantable-medical-devices)\n- [Life After a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/life-after-a-heart-attack)\n  - [Lifestyle Changes to Prevent a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/life-after-a-heart-attack\/lifestyle-changes-for-heart-attack-prevention)\n  - [Heart Attack Recovery FAQs](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/life-after-a-heart-attack\/heart-attack-recovery-faqs)\n- [Heart Attack Tools and Resources](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/heart-attack-tools-and-resources)\n  - [Heart Attack Health Lesson](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/heart-attack-tools-and-resources\/heart-attack-health-lesson)\n\nRelated Articles\n\n[![5 ways to lower risk for second heart attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Health-Topics\/Heart-Attack\/5-ways-to-lower-heart-attack.jpg?h=501&w=400&sc_lang=en&hash=5464F0D9B416B622755F90A33F981446) Heart Attack Tools and Resources](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/heart-attack-tools-and-resources)\n\n[![senior woman with chest pain](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Health-Topics\/Heart-Attack\/senior-woman-with-chest-pain.jpg?h=561&w=800&sc_lang=en&hash=C180261D305199E7E2303E5FC15B20B2) Warning Signs of a Heart Attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack)\n\n![Interactive Cardiovascular Library Thumbnail image](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Health-Topics\/Watch-Learn-and-Live\/WLLWidget.jpg?h=221&iar=0&mw=390&w=390&sc_lang=en)\n\n## Watch, Learn and Live\nSee your cardiovascular system in action with our interactive illustrations and animations.\n\n[Explore the Library](https:\/\/watchlearnlive.heart.org\/CVML_Player.php \"Explore the Library\")\n\n![Woman reading Heart Insight on tablet](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Health-Topics\/Main-Landing\/Heart-Insight--form.jpg?h=534&iar=0&mw=2000&w=800&sc_lang=en)\n\nDonate today to help end heart disease and stroke for everyone.\n\n[Donate Now](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XNPQFTPG \"Donate Now\")\n\n\\*All health\/medical information on this website has been reviewed and approved by the American Heart Association, based on scientific research and American Heart Association guidelines. [Find more information on our content editorial process](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/editorial-guidelines).\n\n![American Heart Association](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Header\/AHA_Full.svg?h=256&iar=0&mw=1910&w=426&sc_lang=en)\n\n## Contact Us\n**National Center**  \n 7272 Greenville Ave.  \n Dallas, TX 75231\n\n**Customer Service**  \n 1-800-242-8721\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/contact-us)\n\n**Hours**  \n Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. CT   \n Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT  \n Closed on Sundays\n\n**Tax Identification Number** 13-5613797\n\n## About Us\nAbout Us\n\n- [About the American Heart Association](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us \"About the American Heart Association\")\n- [Our Impact](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/impact-map \"Our Impact\")\n- [Annual Report](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/2024-2025-annual-report \"Annual Report\")\n- [Financial Information](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/aha-financial-information \"Financial Information\")\n- [International Programs](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/international-programs \"International Programs\")\n- [Latest Heart and Stroke News](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/news \"Latest Heart and Stroke News\")\n- [Media Newsroom](https:\/\/newsroom.heart.org\/ \"Media Newsroom\")\n- [Careers](https:\/\/heart.jobs\/?utm_campaign=heart.org-Footer&vs=2896&utm_medium=Other&utm_source=heart.org-Footer \"Careers\")\n\n## Get Involved\nGet Involved\n\n- [Donate Now](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XEDQWRZF \"Donate Now\")\n- [Make a Memorial Gift](https:\/\/mygiving.heart.org\/-\/XWUBJXQE \"Make a Memorial Gift\")\n- [Ways to Give](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/ways-to-give \"Ways to Give\")\n- [Advocate](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/get-involved\/advocate \"Advocate\")\n- [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/volunteer \"Volunteer\")\n- [Go Red For Women](https:\/\/www.goredforwomen.org\/en\/ \"Go Red For Women\")\n- [ShopHeart](https:\/\/www.shopheart.org\/?a=aha-heart.org-bottom-navigation&utm_source=heart.org&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=aha-heart.org-bottom-navigation \"ShopHeart\")\n- [ShopCPR](https:\/\/shopcpr.heart.org\/ \"ShopCPR\")\n\n## Our Sites\nOur Sites\n\n- [American Heart Association](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/ \"American Heart Association\")\n- [American Stroke Association](https:\/\/www.stroke.org\/en\/ \"American Stroke Association\")\n- [CPR & ECC](https:\/\/cpr.heart.org\/en\/ \"CPR & ECC\")\n- [Professional Heart Daily](https:\/\/professional.heart.org\/en\/ \"Professional Heart Daily\")\n- [More Sites](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/american-heart-association-website-directory \"More Sites\")\n\n- [![Facebook](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/facebook-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AmericanHeart \"American Heart Association Facebook\")\n- [![Instagram](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/instagram-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/american_heart\/ \"American Heart Association Instagram\")\n- [![X formerly known as Twitter](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/x_aha.svg?h=54&iar=0&mw=1910&w=54&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/x.com\/American_Heart \"X formerly known as Twitter\")\n- [![Tik Tok](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Social\/Tiktok_grey.png?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@americanheartassociation?lang=en \"TikTok\")\n- [![YouTube](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/youtube-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/americanheartassoc \"American Heart Association YouTube\")\n- [![LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/linkedin-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/american-heart-association \"American Heart Association Linked In\")\n- [![Pinterest](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Feature\/Navigation\/Social\/pinterest-gray.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/americanheart\/ \"American Heart Association Pinterest\")\n\n- [![National Health Council Standards of Excellence Certification Program page for Standards of Excellence](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Footer\/nhc_optimized.png?h=50&iar=0&mw=1910&w=49&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/nationalhealthcouncil.org\/standards-of-excellence\/ \"National Health Council Standards of Excellence Certification Program\")\n- [![Better Business Bureau page for American Heart Association](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Footer\/Better_Business_Bureau_logo.png?h=60&iar=0&mw=1910&w=45&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.give.org\/charity-reviews\/national\/health\/american-heart-association-in-dallas-tx-173 \"Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity\")\n- [![Charity Navigator Home](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Footer\/Charity_Navigator_logo_120.jpg?h=60&iar=0&mw=1910&w=120&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.charitynavigator.org\/ein\/135613797 \"Charity Navigator\")\n- [![Secured by Sectigo page for SSL certificates](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Footer\/sectigo_trust_seal_140w.png?h=54&iar=0&mw=1910&w=140&sc_lang=en)](https:\/\/www.sectigo.com\/ssl-certificates-tls \"Secured by Sectigo\")\n\n- [Careers](https:\/\/heart.jobs\/?utm_campaign=heart.org-Footer&vs=2896&utm_medium=Other&utm_source=heart.org-Footer \"Careers\")\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/privacy-statement \"Privacy Policy\")\n- [Medical Advice Disclaimer](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/medical-advice \"Medical Advice Disclaimer\")\n- [Accessibility Statement](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/accessibility-statement \"Accessibility Statement\")\n- [Copyright Policy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/copyright \"Copyright Policy\")\n- [Ethics Policy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/ethics-policy \"Ethics Policy\")\n- [Conflict of Interest Policy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/conflict-of-interest-policy \"Conflict of Interest Policy\")\n- [Linking Policy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/linking-policy \"Linking Policy\")\n- [Whistleblower Policy](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/whistleblower-policy \"Whistleblower Policy\")\n- [Content Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/editorial-guidelines \"Content Editorial Guidelines\")\n- [Suppliers & Providers](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/procurement-services-department \"Suppliers & Providers\")\n- [State Fundraising Notices](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/about-us\/statements-and-policies\/state-fundraising-notices \"State Fundraising Notices\")\n\nCookie Settings\n\n©2026 American Heart Association, Inc. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited.  \n The American Heart Association is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.   \n \\*Red Dress ™ DHHS, Go Red ™ AHA ; National Wear Red Day® is a registered trademark.\n\n## Speed Bump\n×\n\n![American Heart Association logo](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/-\/media\/Images\/Logos\/Global-Do-No-Edit\/Two-Click\/ahalogo.png?h=165&w=280&sc_lang=en&hash=E4F07F7A44585F05A690B33CEC7B6E8D)\n\nThis link is provided for convenience only and is not an endorsement of either the linked-to entity or any product or service.\n\n[Proceed]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked. A heart attack can be caused by a complete or partial blockage. Your medical team can use blood tests and imaging tests to see what kind of heart attack you may have had.\n\nThe hours following a [heart attack](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/about-heart-attacks) can be scary and confusing. Your health care team may be busy and focused and may not have time to explain everything that’s happening in the moment. They will try to identify the type of heart attack you’ve had and determine the best treatment options.\n\nYou and your family members may have questions. You may wonder about the tests and procedures that are being performed.\n\n## Heart attack types\nA heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction, sometimes simply referred to as an “MI.” A heart attack happens when a blockage in one or more coronary arteries reduces or stops blood flow to the heart. This prevents oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle.\n\nThe blood vessel blockage might be complete or partial:\n\n- **STEMI:** STEMI is a common name for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. It is not quickly reversed by nitroglycerin. A STEMI causes increased troponin and creatine kinase levels.\n- **NSTEMI:** A non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction is when an artery is partially blocked and blood flow is greatly reduced. It causes increased troponin levels. Several medications can be used to treat this kind of heart attack.\n## Heart attack diagnosis\nDiagnostic tests and procedures help your medical team determine:\n\n- If a heart attack occurred\n- How much your heart was damaged\n- What degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) you might have\n\nThe tests help the health care team decide which treatment is needed right away. They can also help decide which lifestyle changes will you improve your heart health and prevent future medical events. There are two main ways to diagnose a heart attack: blood tests and imaging tests.\n\n**Blood tests** check for enzymes that are increased in the body after a heart attack. The most common tests are for troponin and creatine kinase.\n\n**Imaging tests** take pictures of your heart and surrounding parts of the body. These tests include:\n\n- [Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/electrocardiogram)\n- [Echocardiogram (Echo)](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/echocardiogram)\n- [Coronary angiogram](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/coronary-angiogram)\n- [Heart computed tomography (CT) scan](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-computed-tomography)\n- [Heart MRI](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/cardiac-mri)\n- [Exercise stress test](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/exercise-stress-test)\n- [Positron emission tomography (PET) scan](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/heart-attack\/diagnosing-a-heart-attack\/myocardial-perfusion-imaging)","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack
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Meta Title	Diagnosing a Heart Attack \| American Heart Association
Meta Description	Learn how a heart attack is diagnosed and the various tests and procedures for heart attack diagnosis.
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Boilerpipe Text	A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked. A heart attack can be caused by a complete or partial blockage. Your medical team can use blood tests and imaging tests to see what kind of heart attack you may have had. The hours following a heart attack can be scary and confusing. Your health care team may be busy and focused and may not have time to explain everything that’s happening in the moment. They will try to identify the type of heart attack you’ve had and determine the best treatment options. You and your family members may have questions. You may wonder about the tests and procedures that are being performed. Heart attack types A heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction, sometimes simply referred to as an “MI.” A heart attack happens when a blockage in one or more coronary arteries reduces or stops blood flow to the heart. This prevents oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle. The blood vessel blockage might be complete or partial: STEMI: STEMI is a common name for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. It is not quickly reversed by nitroglycerin. A STEMI causes increased troponin and creatine kinase levels. NSTEMI: A non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction is when an artery is partially blocked and blood flow is greatly reduced. It causes increased troponin levels. Several medications can be used to treat this kind of heart attack. Heart attack diagnosis Diagnostic tests and procedures help your medical team determine: If a heart attack occurred How much your heart was damaged What degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) you might have The tests help the health care team decide which treatment is needed right away. They can also help decide which lifestyle changes will you improve your heart health and prevent future medical events. There are two main ways to diagnose a heart attack: blood tests and imaging tests. Blood tests check for enzymes that are increased in the body after a heart attack. The most common tests are for troponin and creatine kinase. Imaging tests take pictures of your heart and surrounding parts of the body. These tests include: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) Echocardiogram (Echo) Coronary angiogram Heart computed tomography (CT) scan Heart MRI Exercise stress test Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
Markdown	[Skip to main content](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack#main-content) - [Heart Attack and Stroke Symptoms](https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms) - [Volunteer](https://www.heart.org/en/volunteer) - [Learn CPR](https://cpr.heart.org/en/) - [ShopHeart](https://www.shopheart.org/?utm_source=heart.org&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=AHA-Parent-Site-Top-Nav-Desktop) Menu Close Menu - Healthy Living - [Healthy Living](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living) - [Healthy Eating](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating) - [Add Color](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/add-color) - [Cooking Skills](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/cooking-skills) - [Eat Smart](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart) - [Healthy Food Facts](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/healthy-food-facts) - [Heart-Check Foods](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/heart-check-foods) - 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[Getting Active](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/getting-active) - [Staying Motivated](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/staying-motivated) - [Walking](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/walking) - [Pets and Your Health](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-bond-for-life-pets) - [Healthy Living BEYOND Weight™ Study](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-living-beyond-weight-study) - [Company Collaboration](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/company-collaboration) - [Food System Strategy](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/company-collaboration/food-system-strategy) - [Heart-Check Certification](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/company-collaboration/heart-check-certification) - [Workforce Well-being](https://wellbeingworksbetter.org/en/) - Health Topics - [Health Topics](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics) - [Aortic Aneurysm](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/aortic-aneurysm) - [Arrhythmia](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia) - [Atrial Fibrillation](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation) - [Cardiac Arrest](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest) - [Cardiac Rehab](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-rehab) - [Cardiomyopathy](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy) - [Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic-syndrome) - [Cholesterol](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol) - [Congenital Heart Disease](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects) - [Diabetes](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/diabetes) - [Flu Prevention](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/flu-prevention) - [Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack) - [Heart Failure](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-failure) - [Heart Murmurs](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-murmurs) - [Heart Valve Disease](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-valve-problems-and-disease) - [High Blood Pressure](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure) - [Infective Endocarditis](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/infective-endocarditis) - [Kawasaki Disease](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/kawasaki-disease) - [Metabolic Syndrome](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/metabolic-syndrome) - [Myocarditis](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/myocarditis) - [Oral Health](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/oral-health) - [Pericarditis](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pericarditis) - [Peripheral Artery Disease](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/peripheral-artery-disease) - [Pulmonary Embolism](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pulmonary-embolism) - [Sleep Disorders](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/sleep-disorders) - [Stroke](https://www.stroke.org/en/) - [Venous Thromboembolism](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/venous-thromboembolism) - [Weight and Obesity](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/weight-and-obesity) - [Patient and Caregiver Support](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare) - [Support Network Community](https://supportnetwork.heart.org/) - [Telehealth Resources](https://www.heart.org/en/professional/telehealth/telehealth-patient-resources) - Professionals - [Professional Resources](https://www.heart.org/en/professional) - [Professional Heart Daily](https://professional.heart.org/en/) - [Communities]() - [Education](https://professional.heart.org/en/education) - [Guidelines & Statements](https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements) - [Journals](https://professional.heart.org/en/journals) - [Meetings](https://professional.heart.org/en/meetings) - [Professional Membership](https://professional.heart.org/en/professional-membership/become-a-member) - [Research](https://professional.heart.org/en/research-programs) - [Science News](https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news) - [Quality Improvement](https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement) - 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[Wills and Trusts](https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give/planned-giving/ways-to-leave-a-legacy/wills-and-trusts) - - [Donate Once](https://mygiving.heart.org/-/XMNFTTTW) - [Donate Monthly](https://pages.heart.org/drtv_helpheart?s_subsrc=site_nav) - About Us - Learn CPR [CPR and First Aid](https://cpr.heart.org/en/) - In Your Community - [Heart Attack and Stroke Symptoms](https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms) - [Learn CPR](https://cpr.heart.org/en/) - [Volunteer](https://www.heart.org/en/volunteer) - [ShopHeart](https://www.shopheart.org/?utm_source=heart.org&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=AHA-Parent-Site-Top-Nav-Mobile) 1. [Home](https://www.heart.org/en/) 2. [Health Topics](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics) 3. [Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack) 4. [Diagnosing a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) # Diagnosing a Heart Attack ## Quick Facts - A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked. - A heart attack can be caused by a complete or partial blockage. - Your medical team can use blood tests and imaging tests to see what kind of heart attack you may have had. The hours following a [heart attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks) can be scary and confusing. Your health care team may be busy and focused and may not have time to explain everything that’s happening in the moment. They will try to identify the type of heart attack you’ve had and determine the best treatment options. You and your family members may have questions. You may wonder about the tests and procedures that are being performed. ## Heart attack types A heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction, sometimes simply referred to as an “MI.” A heart attack happens when a blockage in one or more coronary arteries reduces or stops blood flow to the heart. This prevents oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle. The blood vessel blockage might be complete or partial: - STEMI: STEMI is a common name for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. It is not quickly reversed by nitroglycerin. A STEMI causes increased troponin and creatine kinase levels. - NSTEMI: A non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction is when an artery is partially blocked and blood flow is greatly reduced. It causes increased troponin levels. Several medications can be used to treat this kind of heart attack. ## Heart attack diagnosis Diagnostic tests and procedures help your medical team determine: - If a heart attack occurred - How much your heart was damaged - What degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) you might have The tests help the health care team decide which treatment is needed right away. They can also help decide which lifestyle changes will you improve your heart health and prevent future medical events. There are two main ways to diagnose a heart attack: blood tests and imaging tests. Blood tests check for enzymes that are increased in the body after a heart attack. The most common tests are for troponin and creatine kinase. Imaging tests take pictures of your heart and surrounding parts of the body. These tests include: - [Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/electrocardiogram) - [Echocardiogram (Echo)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/echocardiogram) - [Coronary angiogram](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/coronary-angiogram) - [Heart computed tomography (CT) scan](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-computed-tomography) - [Heart MRI](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-mri) - [Exercise stress test](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/exercise-stress-test) - [Positron emission tomography (PET) scan](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/myocardial-perfusion-imaging) *** Last Reviewed: Feb 21, 2025 [![X formerly known as Twitter](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Feature/Navigation/Social/x_color.svg?h=54&iar=0&mw=1910&w=54&sc_lang=en)](https://x.com/intent/post?url=https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) [![Facebook](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Feature/Navigation/Social/facebook.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) [![LinkedIn](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Feature/Navigation/Social/linkedin.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) [![Email](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Feature/Social/mail.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](mailto:?subject=Diagnosing%20a%20Heart%20Attack&body=https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) ![Copy site URL to your clipboard](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Feature/Social/copylink.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en) [![Print](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Feature/Social/print.svg?h=52&iar=0&mw=1910&w=52&sc_lang=en)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) ## Heart Attack Tools and Resources - [What Are the Warning Signs of Heart Attack? (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/What-Are-the-Warning-Signs-of-Heart-Attack.pdf "What Are the Warning Signs of Heart Attack? (PDF)") - [What is a Heart Attack? (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/What-is-a-Heart-Attack.pdf?sc_lang=en "What is a Heart Attack? (PDF)") - [How Will I Recover? (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/How-Will-I-Recover-From-My-Heart-Attack.pdf "How Will I Recover? (PDF)") - [Heart Attack Discharge Worksheet (Spanish) (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Cardiac-Rehab/Heart-Attack-Discharge-Sheet-Spanish.pdf "Heart Attack Discharge Worksheet (Spanish) (PDF)") - [5 Ways to Lower Your Risk of a Second Heart Attack - Spanish (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Heart-Attack/5-Steps-to-Prevent-Heart-Attack-Spanish.pdf "5 Ways to Lower Your Risk of a Second Heart Attack -  Spanish (PDF)") - [Cardiac Rehab Referral Card (Spanish) (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Cardiac-Rehab/CR-Referral-Card-Spanish.pdf?sc_lang=en "Cardiac Rehab Referral Card (Spanish) (PDF)") - [Common Heart Attack Warning Signs (PDF)](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Heart-Attack/Heart-Attack-warning-signs-infographic.pdf?sc_lang=en "Common Heart Attack Warning Signs (PDF)") [Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack) [Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack) - [About Heart Attacks](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks) - [Acute Coronary Syndrome](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/acute-coronary-syndrome) - [Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/heart-attack-or-sudden-cardiac-arrest-how-are-they-different) - [Coronary Artery Dissection](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/coronary-artery-dissection-not-just-a-heart-attack) - [Ischemic Heart Disease](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/silent-ischemia-and-ischemic-heart-disease) - [Warning Signs of a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack) - [Heart Attack Symptoms in Women](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack/heart-attack-symptoms-in-women) - [Angina (Chest Pain)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain) - [Stable Angina](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/angina-pectoris-stable-angina) - [Unstable Angina](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/unstable-angina) - [Prinzmetal Angina](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/prinzmetal-angina) - [Refractory Angina](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/refractory-angina) - [Microvascular Angina](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/microvascular-angina) - [Coronary Microvascular Disease](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/coronary-microvascular-disease-mvd) - [Angina in Women vs Men](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/angina-in-women-can-be-different-than-men) - [Heartburn or Heart Attack?](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/angina-chest-pain/heartburn-or-heart-attack) - [Understand Your Risks to Prevent a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/understand-your-risks-to-prevent-a-heart-attack) - [Diagnosing a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack) - [CAC Test](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cac-test) - [Cardiac Catheterization](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-catheterization) - [Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-computed-tomography) - [Cardiac MRI](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-mri) - [Chest X-Ray](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/chest-xray) - [Coronary Angiogram](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/coronary-angiogram) - [Echocardiogram (Echo)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/echocardiogram) - [Electrocardiogram (EKG)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/electrocardiogram) - [Exercise Stress Test](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/exercise-stress-test) - [Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: PET and SPECT](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/myocardial-perfusion-imaging) - [Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/transesophageal-echocardiography) - [Heart Attack Treatment](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack) - [Heart Medications](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/cardiac-medications) - [Aspirin and Dual Antiplatelet Therapy](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/aspirin-and-heart-disease) - [Heart Procedures and Surgeries](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/cardiac-procedures-and-surgeries) - [Stents](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/stent) - [Implantable Medical Devices](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/implantable-medical-devices) - [Life After a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/life-after-a-heart-attack) - [Lifestyle Changes to Prevent a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/life-after-a-heart-attack/lifestyle-changes-for-heart-attack-prevention) - [Heart Attack Recovery FAQs](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/life-after-a-heart-attack/heart-attack-recovery-faqs) - [Heart Attack Tools and Resources](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/heart-attack-tools-and-resources) - [Heart Attack Health Lesson](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/heart-attack-tools-and-resources/heart-attack-health-lesson) Related Articles [![5 ways to lower risk for second heart attack](https://www.heart.org/-/media/Images/Health-Topics/Heart-Attack/5-ways-to-lower-heart-attack.jpg?h=501&w=400&sc_lang=en&hash=5464F0D9B416B622755F90A33F981446) Heart Attack Tools and Resources](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/heart-attack-tools-and-resources) [![senior woman with chest pain](https://www.heart.org/-/media/Images/Health-Topics/Heart-Attack/senior-woman-with-chest-pain.jpg?h=561&w=800&sc_lang=en&hash=C180261D305199E7E2303E5FC15B20B2) Warning Signs of a Heart Attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack) ![Interactive Cardiovascular Library Thumbnail image](https://www.heart.org/en/-/media/Images/Health-Topics/Watch-Learn-and-Live/WLLWidget.jpg?h=221&iar=0&mw=390&w=390&sc_lang=en) ## Watch, Learn and Live See your cardiovascular system in action with our interactive illustrations and animations. 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Readable Markdown	A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked. A heart attack can be caused by a complete or partial blockage. Your medical team can use blood tests and imaging tests to see what kind of heart attack you may have had. The hours following a [heart attack](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks) can be scary and confusing. Your health care team may be busy and focused and may not have time to explain everything that’s happening in the moment. They will try to identify the type of heart attack you’ve had and determine the best treatment options. You and your family members may have questions. You may wonder about the tests and procedures that are being performed. ## Heart attack types A heart attack is also called a myocardial infarction, sometimes simply referred to as an “MI.” A heart attack happens when a blockage in one or more coronary arteries reduces or stops blood flow to the heart. This prevents oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle. The blood vessel blockage might be complete or partial: - STEMI: STEMI is a common name for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. It is not quickly reversed by nitroglycerin. A STEMI causes increased troponin and creatine kinase levels. - NSTEMI: A non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction is when an artery is partially blocked and blood flow is greatly reduced. It causes increased troponin levels. Several medications can be used to treat this kind of heart attack. ## Heart attack diagnosis Diagnostic tests and procedures help your medical team determine: - If a heart attack occurred - How much your heart was damaged - What degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) you might have The tests help the health care team decide which treatment is needed right away. They can also help decide which lifestyle changes will you improve your heart health and prevent future medical events. There are two main ways to diagnose a heart attack: blood tests and imaging tests. Blood tests check for enzymes that are increased in the body after a heart attack. The most common tests are for troponin and creatine kinase. Imaging tests take pictures of your heart and surrounding parts of the body. These tests include: - [Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/electrocardiogram) - [Echocardiogram (Echo)](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/echocardiogram) - [Coronary angiogram](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/coronary-angiogram) - [Heart computed tomography (CT) scan](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-computed-tomography) - [Heart MRI](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cardiac-mri) - [Exercise stress test](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/exercise-stress-test) - [Positron emission tomography (PET) scan](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/myocardial-perfusion-imaging)
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