4. Coronary Artery Disease Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is coronary artery disease?
Coronary artery disease is the end-result of a gradual build-up of fatty deposits (cholesterol plaques) and blood cells in the inner lining of the coronary arterial wall, leading to narrowing of the vessel and reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
What is atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is the process of gradual build-up of fatty deposits and blood cells in the inner lining of the coronary arterial wall.
What can cause a heart attack?
A heart attack can occur when a blood clot suddenly and completely blocks an already diseased coronary artery.
What is angina pectoris?
Angina pectoris is discomfort or transient chest pressure or pain that is relieved by rest or medication, due to narrowing of the coronary artery.
What are the three ways coronary artery disease may present?
- Angina
- Heart Attack
- Sudden Death
What is acute myocardial infarction (AMI)?
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the medical term for a heart attack.
What are common symptoms of a heart attack?
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
How long does chest discomfort typically last during a heart attack?
Chest discomfort usually lasts longer than 30 minutes.
What are some common causes of sudden death?
- Heart attack
- Foreign body airway obstruction
- Drowning
- Stroke
- Drug overdose
- Suffocation
- Smoke inhalation
- Electrocution
- Severe allergic reactions
- Severe trauma
What are the major risk factors for heart attack that cannot be changed?
- Heredity (family history of heart attacks)
- Male gender
- Increasing age
What are major risk factors for heart attack that can be changed?
- Cigarette smoking
- High blood pressure
- High blood cholesterol levels
- Diabetes mellitus
What are other risk factors for heart attack that can also be changed?
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Stress
What is Prudent Heart Living?
Prudent Heart Living includes adopting a lifestyle to help minimize the risk of a future heart attack.
Name some strategies to control high blood pressure.
- Dietary change
- Medication
What dietary changes can help reduce the risk of heart attack?
Eat wisely by reducing saturated fat and cholesterol in the diet.
Fill in the blank: _______ can help lower the chances of having a heart attack or stroke.
[Reducing risk factors]
What is the importance of exercise in Prudent Heart Living?
Exercise tones the muscles, stimulates blood circulation, helps avoid excess weight gain, and promotes general well-being.
