Ionotropic I

Question 1

True or false: there is a poor correlation between cardiac function and symptoms.

Answer 1

TRUE. There are lots of factors when it comes to exercise tolerance and cardiac function.

Question 2

Describe the progression of congestive heart failure.

Answer 2

1. Injury to myocardium
2. LV dysfunction
3. Organs get hypoperfused
4. Endogenous neurohormonal systems activated.
5. Cardiac remodeling
6. Causes further damage to myocardium (downward spiral)

Question 3

What are some compensatory mechanisms to heart failure?

Answer 3

Increased heart rate, increased contractility, increased rate of relaxation, peripheral vasoconstriction.

Also, activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Question 4

What is the first line therapy for heart failure?

Answer 4

ACEIs

Question 5

Do ARBs affect bradykinin levels?

Answer 5

No, so they don’t cause cough. They can still cause angioedema, however.