Myocarditis vs. Heart Attack

[MattCh70]

I was recently admitted to hospital with heart attack symptoms. This was initially diagnosed as MINOCA (heart attack without obstructions in the arteries). I had an angiogram and an echo CG that showed no obvious blockage. As an outpatient, I had an MRI scan that showed some scarring consistent with Myocarditis i.e. a viral attack of the heart tissue rather than a blockage. So the question is, have I had a heart attack or is it classified some other way? (Thinking of health/life assurance impact). Thanks in advance.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hello MattCh70

Welcome to the forum.

A heart attack is caused by the loss of blood supply to the heart muscle usually due to a permanent blockage or a Myocardial infarction non obstructive coronary arteries.

The common causes of a MINOCA are Microvascular dysfunction, vasospastic angina and Spontaneous coronary artery dissection.

Troponin a protein is released into the blood when the heart is damaged due to this lack of blood supply or infection such as myocarditis.

It can be difficult to tell the difference between a heart attack, severe coronary vasospasm or myocarditis without a Cardiac MRI

I also have scarring on my heart due to myocarditis however I live with Vasospastic angina.

The BHF has some information on the website.

Cardiomyopathy UK is another good source of information.

Both the BHF and Cardiomyopathy UK have a helpline so perhaps give them a call too?

cardiomyopathy.org/about-ca....

bhf.org.uk/informationsuppo....

There are some other forum members who have more experience of living with myocarditis and I am sure they will be along too to share their experiences with you.

[MattCh70 in reply to Milkfairy]

Thank you. So... did I have a heart attack or not? I’m thinking not if the MRI says Myocarditis. I had high troponin.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to MattCh70]

I suggest you talk to your Cardiologist or GP further about your results.

Alternatively call The BHF helpline and speak to one of the Cardiac nurses they are very knowledgable and helpful.

300 330 3322

[MattCh70 in reply to Milkfairy]

Will do. Thank you.

[HHH2017]

Hi, hope you manage to get some answers. My experience of myocarditis is that it is not well understood and hard to get definitive answers - sorry. It is possible you had a HA, but its very likely you didn’t too. I had 2 attacks one at home and a 2nd in hospital whilst being fully monitored. My heart muscle was so enlarged by the myocarditis my heart wasn’t able to pump properly (but my arteries were all clear). I was in hospital for nearly 3 weeks and have some permanent damage to the heart muscle. It is however rare to get this following myocarditis. I found at each consultant appt I found out a little more as they gradually understood a little more (usually after another test or two). I’d advise keep talking to your GP and consultant and hopefully you’ll get answers. HA or myocarditis or both - your heart has suffered a significant shock you need to rest and look after yourself - allow your heart time to recover. Travel insurance significantly affected - so hope you do find out soon.

[MattCh70 in reply to HHH2017]

Thank you for your full and detailed response. Very much appreciated. I’m like a sponge for this info at the moment. Cheers.

[GreyDoor1]

Still classed as a heart attack. I has no idea that there was different types of heart attack. Seems MINOCA isn’t as severe as a typical heart attack but could be? Not sure about it all? Raised Troponin levels show up as a heart attack. I’m waiting on an MRI although I’ve already been told I have MINOCA. Hoping MRI goes ok. Hope you keep well.