Cardio #2 Flashcards
Because RBCs lose their nucleus during erythropoiesis, they have a relatively short lifespan. On average, how many days do RBCs live/circulate?
120 days
What is the other name for red blood cells (RBCs)?
Erythrocytes
What protein makes up the bulk of RBC structure and what is the function of this protein?
Hemoglobin- binds to oxygen
What happens during the Vascular spasm phase of hemostasis?
Blood vessels constrict to reduce blood flow past site of damage (reduce blood loss)
What happens during the Platelet plug formation phase of hemostasis?
Platelets are activated when exposed to tissues behind the endothelium and stick to the site of damage and each other to form a temporary plug
What happens during the Coagulation phase of hemostasis?
Activation of various factors in blood via the clotting cascade to ultimately convert fibriogen into fibrin. Fibrin stands form a reinforcing network around the platelet plug, trapping red blood cells and forming a complex blood clot over the damaged area.
what is anemia and why does it occur?
Anemia means the blood can’t carry enough oxygen to the body.
This can happen because:
- There are not enough red blood cells
- Hemoglobin is too low
- Red blood cells are damaged or made wrong
what are common Signs & Symptoms of Anemia
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Feeling cold, especially in hands/feet
- Pale skin (pallor)
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Dizziness or shortness of breath
- Numbness, weakness
- Some may also have brittle nails, sore tongue, or jaundice (depending on the type)
What is iron Deficiency Anemia and what is it caused by?
The most common type of anemia
it is Caused by too little iron from:
- Poor diet
- Heavy periods
- Blood loss
- Growth or pregnancy
- Gut conditions (e.g. Coeliac, Crohn’s)
what are the treatments used for iron deficiency anemia, and what are possible side effcects?
Iron supplements and diet changes. side effects can include Constipation, Nausea and
Black stools
who is the most at risk for iron deficiency anemia?
-Infants, children, teens (growth spurts)
-Pregnant people
-Heavy menstruation
-Poor diet/food insecurity
-Intestinal diseases (e.g. Crohn’s)
-Surgeries like gastrectomy
What is the pathophysiology of iron deficiency anemia?
When there’s not enough iron, the body can’t make enough hemoglobin, so red blood cells carry less oxygen. These cells become small and pale. With less oxygen in the body, people feel tired, dizzy, and short of breath. The heart has to work harder to pump blood, and other organs can also be affected.
What is Macrocytic Anemia?
A condition where red blood cells are larger than normal, often due to a lack of vitamin B12 or folic acid. It can cause fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. Treatment usually involves vitamin supplements.
what are the Causes of Macrocytic Anemia?
-Folate Deficiency: Insufficient folate for RBC production.
-Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Lack of B12 affects RBC maturation.
-Poor Diet or Absorption: Low intake or difficulty
absorbing B12/folate.
-Alcoholism: Interferes with folate absorption.
-Pernicious Anemia: Lack of intrinsic factor prevents B12 absorption.
-Increased Folate Loss: Conditions like dialysis increase folate loss.
-Increased Demand: Pregnancy increases need for folate.
What are the different kinds of anemia?
-Macrocytic Anemia
-Iron Deficiency Anemia
-Hemolytic Anemia
-Anemia of Chronic Disease
-Post-Hemorrhagic Anemia
-Aplastic Anemia
-Sickle Cell Anemia
-Thalassemia
what is Thalassemia anemia and what are the symptoms and causes ?
Inherited disorder affecting hemoglobin production.
Causes: Abnormal globin chain synthesis.
Symptoms: Fatigue, jaundice, bone deformities.
what is Sickle Cell Anemia and what are the symptoms and causes?
Inherited; RBCs are abnormally shaped and stiff.
Causes: Genetic mutation leading to defective hemoglobin.
Symptoms: Pain episodes, fatigue, jaundice, risk of infections.
what is Aplastic Anemia and what are the symptoms and causes?
Bone marrow failure; reduced RBC production.
Causes: Stem cell damage from toxins, infections, or drugs.
Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, infections, bleeding.
what is Post-Hemorrhagic Anemia and what are the causes?
Due to sudden blood loss faster than RBC production.
Causes: Trauma, surgery, or bleeding disorders.
what are the causes and symptoms of Anemia of Chronic Disease
Caused by chronic infections or inflammatory disorders (e.g., lupus).
Symptoms: Fatigue, pale skin, weakness.
What is thrombocytopenia?
Thrombocytopenia means having very low platelets in your blood. Platelets help with clotting, so if they’re low, it’s easier to bleed. You might see spots on your skin or have bruising. It can happen because your body isn’t making enough platelets, or it’s destroying them too quickly. It can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.
What is hemophilia?
Hemophilia is a genetic condition where your body doesn’t have enough of the proteins needed to form blood clots. This means you bleed for longer if you get a cut or injury. There are two main types: Hemophilia A (missing clotting factor VIII) and Hemophilia B (missing clotting factor IX). People with hemophilia often get joint bleeding, which can cause pain. Treatment involves giving clotting factor products.
What is disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?
DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation) is a condition where the blood forms small clots throughout the body. These clots can block blood flow and damage organs.
What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) is when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can block blood flow and cause problems like swelling or pain.
