Cardiology Flashcards
What causes myocardial ischemia and how is it commonly manifested?
Myocardial ischemia is caused by an imbalance between the heart’s oxygen supply and demand, and it is most frequently manifested as chest discomfort.
What symptoms result from a reduction in the pumping ability of the heart?
A reduction in the pumping ability of the heart commonly leads to fatigue and elevated intravascular pressure upstream of the failing ventricle, resulting in abnormal fluid accumulation such as peripheral edema or pulmonary congestion and dyspnea.
What symptoms can result from obstruction to blood flow in heart disease?
Obstruction to blood flow, such as in valvular stenosis, can cause symptoms resembling those of myocardial failure.
What are the common symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias?
Cardiac arrhythmias often cause symptoms such as palpitations, dyspnea, hypotension, and syncope. These symptoms generally occur abruptly and may disappear as rapidly as they develop.
What types of laboratory tests may supplement the clinical examination for cardiac diagnosis?
The clinical examination may be supplemented by ECG, noninvasive imaging examinations, blood tests, specialized invasive examinations, and genetic tests.
What systemic disorder should be considered in an elderly patient with atrial fibrillation and unexplained heart failure?
Hyperthyroidism.
What systemic disorder should be considered in a patient with unexplained fluctuating atrioventricular block?
Lyme disease
What can an unexplained pericardial effusion suggest?
It may be an early clue to the diagnosis of tuberculosis or a neoplasm.
