How do you diagnose myocardial infarction?

The symptoms of a heart attack can be quite distinctive but some other conditions have similar symptoms. When you get to hospital, the doctors or nurses will perform an ECG (electrocardiograph). This is where electrodes (wires) are attached to your body and the electrical activity of your heart is recorded. This can help the doctor decide whether you have had a heart attack or not. When the heart muscle is damaged it releases proteins called enzymes. If the levels of these enzymes in the blood are raised it can help the doctor diagnose a heart attack. A blood test is needed to check the levels of these enzymes.