Final answer:
Acute myocardial infarction (MI) can present with retrosternal pain, dyspnea, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, and diaphoresis. An ECG can reveal alterations in the ST and Q components, and blood tests for creatine kinase MB and cardiac troponin assist in confirming the diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physical Exam Findings in Acute MI
During an acute myocardial infarction (MI), several physical exam findings can be evident. Patients may experience sudden and severe retrosternal pain, also known as angina pectoris, which often radiates down the left arm in males. This symptom may present differently in females, leading to previous underdiagnosis in women. Other symptoms include dyspnea (difficulty breathing), palpitations (irregular heartbeat), nausea and vomiting, diaphoresis (sweating), anxiety, and even syncope (fainting).
Diagnostic tools include electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, which can show vital changes in the ST and Q components, suggestive of STEMI or non-STEMI classifications. However, not all areas affected by an MI may be apparent on an ECG, and additional tests such as echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging may be necessary for a more accurate diagnosis. Blood tests are also indicative of an MI, highlighting elevated levels of creatine kinase MB and cardiac troponin, released by damaged cardiac muscle cells.
While the presence of symptoms can guide diagnosis, it is important to note that between 22 and 64 percent of MIs can be asymptomatic, making vigilance and detailed diagnostic testing critical.