Lesson 3 (Chapter 3: Disorders of the Cardiovascular System)

Question 1

Heart disease

Answer 1

The leading cause of death in the United States. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are the main risk factors for developing heart disease.

Question 2

Coronary artery disease (CAD)

Answer 2

The coronary arteries become narrowed by fatty deposits called plaque.

Question 3

Angina pectoris

Answer 3

A pain or tightness in the chest that occurs when fatty plaque inside the coronary arteries restricts blood flow to the heart.

Question 4

Myocardial infarction (MI)

Answer 4

A “heart attack” is damage or death of part of the heart muscle caused by the lack of blood flow through the coronary arteries.

Question 5

Hypertension (HTN)

Answer 5

“High blood pressure” occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes.

Question 6

Hypercholesterolemia

Answer 6

A condition caused by high cholesterol, a fatty substance that the body uses to protect nerves, make cell membranes, and produce hormones. High cholesterol levels can increase a person’s risk of coronary artery disease.

Question 7

Aneurysm

Answer 7

A localized enlargement of an artery caused by weakness in the arterial wall that can rupture and require emergency treatment.

Question 8

Arteriosclerosis

Answer 8

Also called atherosclerosis, is the hardening of arteries caused by cholesterol-like plaque.

Question 9

Thrombosis

Answer 9

The formation of a blood clot attached to the interior wall of a blood vessel (thrombus) that can prevent the flow of blood through the vessel.

Question 10

Embolism

Answer 10

A blood clot, piece of plaque, or other substance that travels in the bloodstream and lodges in a blood vessel, causing a sudden blockage.

Question 11

Varicose veins

Answer 11

Are swollen, enlarged veins (usually in the legs) caused by faulty valves in the veins that allow the blood to pool.