Cardiovascular Theme Flashcards
(9 cards)
Understand basic anatomy of key components of the cardiovascular system
The cardiovascular system consists of arteries, veins, capillaries, and the heart. Arteries are thick to withstand high pressure; veins have valves to prevent backflow. Blood is composed of plasma, a buffy coat (WBCs and platelets), and red blood cells (RBCs). The heart is enclosed by the epicardium and pericardium, which protect and nourish it.
Understand the cardiac conduction system and how this is measured with an echocardiogram (ECG)
The SA node initiates electrical signals, passing to the AV node, bundle of His, and Purkinje fibers. ECG measures this activity: P wave = atrial depolarization, Q = septal depolarization, R = ventricular depolarization, T = ventricular repolarization.
Understand the aetiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentations of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as hypertension
CVDs result from genetic and lifestyle factors. Hypertension develops from high cardiac output or vascular resistance. Symptoms may be silent or include headaches, fatigue, or end-organ damage.
Understand risk factors for cardiovascular disease and the role of lifestyle modifications in the prevention and management of CVDs
Risk factors include smoking, high BP, poor diet, inactivity, age, and genetics. Lifestyle changes like exercise, stress reduction, diet, and quitting smoking can prevent and treat CVDs.
Understand that hypertension is common and is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease and kidney disease.
Hypertension contributes to strokes, heart failure, kidney disease, sexual dysfunction, and dementia. It is treatable and preventable with lifestyle changes and medications.
Understand that blood pressure is determined by peripheral vascular resistance and cardiac output
BP = CO x TPR. Cardiac Output (CO) = Stroke Volume x Heart Rate. Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR) depends on the diameter of arteries and arterioles.
Understand how the kidney influences blood pressure by controlling blood volume
Kidneys control BP by filtering blood and adjusting salt and water levels. RAAS and vasopressin help retain water and salt, increasing blood volume and BP.
Understand the importance of sodium chloride (salt) for regulating blood volume
Salt attracts water and maintains plasma volume. Without enough salt, plasma volume drops, reducing BP. The body compensates by triggering salt appetite and reabsorption mechanisms.
