Final answer:
A sudden blockage of an artery is termed a myocardial infarction (MI), which commonly leads to a heart attack when part of the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen. This condition is primarily caused by the blockage of a coronary artery from a blood clot or plaque rupture and requires immediate treatment to prevent severe consequences, including death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sudden Blockage of an Artery
The sudden blockage of an artery is called a myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack. This medical event occurs when blood flow stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle due to the lack of oxygen, a condition called hypoxia. The most frequent cause of a myocardial infarction is the complete blockage of a coronary artery, often due to a blood clot or the rupture of a plaque in the heart's vessels. The primary consequences of an MI include chest pain, pressure, and potentially death of myocardial cells if not promptly treated.
A myocardial infarction is a serious condition and is the leading cause of death worldwide. The underlying cause, coronary artery disease, is characterized by atherosclerosis — the buildup of plaque within the arterial walls, which leads to ischemia. Treatment for obstructive shock, which can arise from such blockages, may include administering fluids intravenously, anticoagulants, and other procedures such as surgery to restore proper blood flow and oxygen delivery to heart tissues.