6 Markers For Heart Flashcards
Evaluate the use of biological and artificial hearts
Mechanical valves last a long time and don’t wear out quickly.
• Patients must take blood-thinning medication to prevent blood clots.
• Because of the material, mechanical valves can cause blood clots to form more easily as it doesn’t flow as well, thinners (such as Warfarin) need to be taken
• Parts can wear out and stop working
• Biological valves are made from the heart valves of animals like pigs or cows.
• People usually don’t need to take blood thinners as much.
• Biological valves may wear out over time and may need to be replaced after several years
Why would a person with a leaking heart have difficulty exercising
• Reduced Blood Flow: A leaking valve can cause blood to flow backward, meaning less blood is pumped forward to the body during each heartbeat, leading to reduced oxygen supply to muscles during exercise making it hard for the body to work.
• Lower Oxygen Delivery: As the heart struggles to pump adequate blood, oxygen delivery to muscles becomes less efficient, which can cause fatigue and weakness during physical activity which can make it difficult to exercise
• Increased Heart Workload: The heart has to work harder to compensate for the leaking valve, which may lead to inefficient pumping and can cause the heart to become overworked, particularly during exercise.
• Shortness of Breath: Inadequate blood circulation can lead to fluid build-up in the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath, which can worsen during physical exertion.
• Dizziness or Fainting: The decreased efficiency of the heart and blood flow can lead to low blood pressure, causing dizziness or fainting, especially during strenuous activities.
• Chest Pain: As the heart struggles to pump blood properly, the individual may experience chest discomfort or pain, particularly when exerting themselves physically.
Evaluate the use of stents and statins
Stents:
Success rate is high
Don’t need major surgery
Drugs needed to stop blood clotting
Arteries can re-close
Statins:
Reduced risk of narrowed arteries
Helps fight inflammation
Can increase type 2 disbetes
