Cardiovascular Disease Flashcards
What is cardiovascular disease?
It is a term used to describe disease of the heart or blood vessels.
What is coronary heart disease?
When the coronary arteries that supply the blood to the muscle of the heart get blocked by layers of fatty material building up.
How can coronary heart disease lead to a heart attack?
The muscle of the heart gets blocked by layers of fatty material building up. This causes arteries to become narrow so blood flow is restricted and there’s a lack of oxygen to the heart muscle.
What are stents?
They are tubes that are inserted inside arteries - they keep them open making sure blood can pass through to the heart muscles - this keeps the persons heart beating (and alive)
Why are stents effective?
Lowers the risk of hearts attacks in people with coronary heart disease
Effective for a long time
Recovery time from surgery is quick
What are the risks of using stents?
During operation heart attacks could happen
Risk of infection from the surgery
Thrombosis - risk of developing a blood clot near the stent.
What is cholesterol?
It is an essential lipid that your body produces and needs to function properly.
What happens if a person has too much ‘bad’ cholesterol?
Fatty deposits can form inside arteries which could lead to coronary heart disease.
