What is myocardial bridging?

Myocardial Bridging

What is myocardial bridging?

Myocardial bridging means that a part of a coronary (heart) artery passes through the heart muscle. The coronary arteries are blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Normally, they lie on the surface of the heart.

Myocardial bridging does not cause problems for most people. But for some people, it can reduce blood flow. When the heart muscle contracts, it can squeeze the artery. This can stop blood from getting to the heart muscle. Reduced blood flow can cause symptoms or other problems. In some cases, it can lead to a heart attack.

What are the symptoms of myocardial bridging?

Most people who have myocardial bridging have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, it's because the heart muscle isn't getting enough oxygen.

Chest pain or pressure is the most common symptom. But some people have other symptoms, like:

  • Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly or in one or both shoulders or arms.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Lightheadedness or sudden weakness.
  • A fast or irregular heartbeat.

Symptoms can be brought on by many things including exercise, emotional stress, and smoking. You may be able to predict when your symptoms will happen and take steps to relieve them. A change in your typical pattern may mean that you're having a heart attack.

How is myocardial bridging diagnosed?

Myocardial bridging is usually found during tests for other reasons. These may be tests that check how well your heart is working and measure blood flow to your heart muscle. Examples of these tests include a coronary angiogram, an echocardiogram, and a CT angiogram.

How is myocardial bridging treated?

To help keep your heart as healthy as possible, follow a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes eating healthy foods, being active, staying at a weight that is healthy for you, and not smoking or vaping. Also, manage other health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Most people do not need treatment. But if you have symptoms, you may take medicines. The medicines can help relieve symptoms. But they don't fix the artery.

Some people have a procedure or surgery to improve blood flow in the artery.

How can you care for yourself when you have myocardial bridging?

Have a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes eating healthy foods, being active, staying at a weight that's healthy for you, and not smoking. Manage other health problems. Take medicines if your doctor prescribes them. Tell your doctor if you have new symptoms or changes in your symptoms.

Myocardial bridging: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).
  • You have symptoms of a heart attack. These may include:
    • Chest pain or pressure, or a strange feeling in the chest.
    • Sweating.
    • Shortness of breath.
    • Nausea or vomiting.
    • Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly or in one or both shoulders or arms.
    • Lightheadedness or sudden weakness.
    • A fast or irregular heartbeat.
    After you call 911, the operator may tell you to chew 1 adult-strength or 2 to 4 low-dose aspirin. Wait for an ambulance. Do not try to drive yourself.

Call your doctor now if:

  • Your symptoms seem worse, come on sooner, or last longer than usual.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.

©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated

The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.