Heart attacks can cause vomiting primarily due to the release of specific metabolites and the body's response to the cardiac event.
Here's a breakdown of the mechanism:
-
Metabolite Release: When a heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs, blood flow to parts of the heart is restricted, leading to tissue damage (ischemia and necrosis). The damaged heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) release substances such as lactic acid and pyruvic acid.
-
Autonomic Nervous System Stimulation: These metabolites irritate or stimulate nerve receptors in the heart. These receptors are connected to the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
-
Cardiogenic Nausea and Vomiting: The stimulation of the autonomic nervous system can trigger a response that includes nausea and vomiting. This type of nausea and vomiting, specifically caused by a heart problem, is often referred to as cardiogenic nausea and vomiting.
In summary, the metabolic byproducts from the damaged heart tissue during a heart attack stimulate the nervous system, ultimately resulting in nausea and vomiting. This is a sign of the body reacting to the trauma that is the heart attack.
