B2- Cardiovascular Disease

Question 1

What is coronary heart disease?

Answer 1

Coronary heart disease is when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle get blocked by fatty material buildup, restricting blood flow and potentially leading to a heart attack.

This condition results in a lack of oxygen to the heart muscle.

Question 2

What is the function of stents?

Answer 2

Stents are tubes inserted inside arteries to keep them open, ensuring blood can pass through to the heart muscles.

This helps maintain heart function and reduces the risk of heart attacks.

Question 3

What are the risks associated with stent surgery?

Answer 3

The risks include complications during the operation (e.g., heart attack), infection from surgery, and the development of a blood clot near the stent (thrombosis).

These complications can affect recovery and overall health.

Question 4

How do statins affect cholesterol levels?

Answer 4

Statins reduce the amount of ‘bad’ cholesterol (LDL) in the bloodstream, slowing down the formation of fatty deposits inside arteries.

This helps lower the risk of coronary heart disease.

Question 5

List three advantages of statins.

Answer 5

• Reduce the risk of strokes
• Increase ‘good’ cholesterol (HDL)
• May help prevent other diseases

The increase in HDL cholesterol helps remove ‘bad’ cholesterol from the blood.

Question 6

List three disadvantages of statins.

Answer 6

• Must be taken regularly
• Can cause side effects (e.g., headaches)
• Effects are not instant

Serious side effects can include kidney failure, liver damage, and memory loss.

Question 7

True or False: Statins can increase the level of ‘bad’ cholesterol in the bloodstream.

Answer 7

False

Statins are designed to reduce ‘bad’ cholesterol levels.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: Cholesterol is an essential _______ that your body produces and needs to function properly.

Answer 8

[lipid]

Cholesterol is necessary for various bodily functions, but imbalances can lead to health issues.

Question 9

What happens to the arteries in coronary heart disease?

Answer 9

The arteries become narrow due to layers of fatty material buildup, restricting blood flow.

This can lead to a lack of oxygen to the heart muscle and increase the risk of a heart attack.