MT CH10 KT Cardio Vascular Disorders Flashcards
(80 cards)
What is an aneurysm?
A localized abnormal dilation of a blood vessel, usually an artery, caused by weakness of the vessel wall; may eventually burst
Aneurysms can lead to serious complications, including rupture and internal bleeding.
Define angina pectoris.
A feeling of constriction around the heart or pain that may radiate to the left arm or shoulder, usually brought on by exertion; caused by insufficient blood supply to the heart
Angina is often a symptom of coronary artery disease.
What is arrhythmia?
Any abnormality in the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat; also called dysrhythmia
Arrhythmias can range from harmless to life-threatening.
What does arteriosclerosis refer to?
Hardening (sclerosis) of the arteries, with loss of capacity and loss of elasticity, as from fatty deposits, deposit of calcium salts, or scar tissue formation
This condition can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
Define atherosclerosis.
The development of fatty, fibrous patches (plaques) in the lining of arteries, causing narrowing of the lumen and hardening of the vessel wall; the most common form of arteriosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes.
What is bradycardia?
A slow heart rate of less than 60 bpm
Bradycardia can be normal in athletes but may require treatment if symptomatic.
What is a cerebrovascular accident (CVA)?
Sudden damage to the brain resulting from reduction of blood flow; causes include atherosclerosis, embolism, thrombosis, or hemorrhage from a ruptured aneurysm; commonly called stroke
Stroke can lead to long-term disabilities and requires immediate medical attention.
What is the term for the enlargement of the ends of the fingers and toes caused by growth of soft tissue around the nails?
Clubbing
Seen in various diseases with poor peripheral circulation.
What is coarctation of the aorta?
Localized narrowing of the aorta with restriction of blood flow
Refer to relevant figures for visual representation.
What does C-reactive protein (CRP) indicate?
Protein produced during systemic inflammation; high levels indicate cardiovascular disease prognosis
CRP may contribute to atherosclerosis.
Define cyanosis.
Bluish discoloration of the skin caused by lack of oxygen in the blood
Adjective form is cyanetic.
What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
Thrombophlebitis involving the deep veins
What does diaphoresis mean?
Profuse sweating
What is a dissecting aneurysm?
An aneurysm where blood enters the arterial wall and separates the layers
Usually involves the aorta.
Define dyslipidemia.
Disorder in serum lipid levels; includes hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia
What does dyspnea refer to?
Difficult or labored breathing
What is edema?
Swelling of body tissues caused by excess fluid
Causes include cardiovascular disturbances, kidney failure, inflammation, and malnutrition.
What is embolism?
Obstruction of a blood vessel by a blood clot or other matter carried in the circulation
Define embolus.
A mass carried in the circulation, which may be a blood clot, air, fat, bacteria, or other solid matter
What is fibrillation?
Spontaneous, quivering, and ineffectual contraction of muscle fibers
What does heart block refer to?
An interference in the electrical conduction system of the heart resulting in arrhythmia
What is heart failure?
A condition caused by the inability of the heart to maintain adequate blood circulation
What are hemorrhoids?
A varicose vein in the rectum
Define hypertension.
A condition of higher-than-normal blood pressure; essential hypertension has no known cause