Myocardial Infarction

Summary of Myocardial Infarction from a TCM Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack) falls under the category of “True Heart Pain” (真心痛) or “Chest Impediment” (胸痹). It is considered a critical condition caused by a severe blockage in the heart’s channels, leading to the obstruction of Qi and Blood flow.

The primary cause is an underlying deficiency in the body’s healthy energy (Zheng Qi), combined with pathogenic factors such as cold, phlegm, and blood stasis obstructing the heart vessels. Emotional stress, overexertion, and improper diet are common triggers that can lead to an acute blockage.

TCM treatment is based on identifying the specific pattern of disharmony. The main principles are to unblock the vessels, move Qi, activate blood, and alleviate pain. Treatment is tailored to one of five common patterns:

1. Cold Coagulation: Characterized by sudden, constricting chest pain that worsens with cold. The treatment principle is to dispel cold, activate blood, and restore the flow of Yang Qi.

2. Phlegm-Turbidity Obstruction: Presents as a heavy, oppressive feeling in the chest, often in overweight individuals. The principle is to resolve phlegm, dissolve nodules, and open the Yang Qi.

3. Blood Stasis Obstruction: Involves severe, sharp, fixed chest pain, often triggered by anger. The principle is to activate blood, transform stasis, and unblock the vessels to relieve pain.

4. Yin and Blood Deficiency: Manifests as a dull, vexing chest pain accompanied by symptoms of “empty heat” (e.g., dry mouth, night sweats). The principle is to nourish Yin and blood, and activate the collaterals to relieve pain.

5. Yang Qi Deficiency: Characterized by a stuffy, dull chest pain that worsens with activity, along with fatigue and cold limbs. The principle is to warm the Yang, tonify Qi, and activate the collaterals to relieve pain.