Can MRSA cause a heart attack?

While Methicillin-resistant _Staphylococcus aureus_ (MRSA) bacteria can cause various serious infections, they do not directly cause heart attacks.

Heart attacks typically occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to plaque build-up or a blood clot forming in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.

MRSA primarily affects the skin and soft tissues. In severe cases, it can lead to bloodstream infections (bacteremia), lung infections (pneumonia), bone infections (osteomyelitis), or infections of the heart valves (endocarditis). MRSA endocarditis can severely affect the heart and potentially result in complications that may increase the risk of cardiovascular events or lead to heart failure. However, endocarditis itself doesn't cause a heart attack, and not all endocarditis cases are caused by MRSA.

It's crucial to seek prompt medical attention if you think you're experiencing symptoms related to a heart attack or MRSA. Preventing MRSA infections by washing hands frequently and taking recommended precautions can assist in lowering the risk of associated complications.