Physiological Response to Myocardial Infarction

A 58-year-old male patient presents to the emergency department with sudden onset chest pain, shortness of breath, and diaphoresis. The patient's past medical history is significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Upon assessment, the nurse notes that the patient is diaphoretic, tachycardic, and has an irregular heartbeat. An ECG shows ST segment elevation in the anterior leads.

This clinical presentation is most consistent with a myocardial infarction, indicating a blockage in the coronary arteries, typically resulting from atherosclerosis. In response to myocardial ischemia, the body initiates several physiological processes.

Fill in the blank: Following a myocardial infarction, the heart can undergo a process called _______ which can lead to decreased contractility and heart failure.