Premium Essay

Coronary Artery Disease Research Paper

Submitted By
Words 806
Pages 4
A heart attack happens when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked and the heart can’t get oxygen. If blood flow isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle begins to die.

Heart attack treatment works best when it’s given right after symptoms occur. If you think you or someone else is having a heart attack, even if you’re not sure, call 9–1–1 right away.

Overview

Heart attacks most often occur as a result of coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease. CHD is a condition in which a waxy substance called plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart.

When plaque builds up in the arteries, the condition is called …show more content…
This causes a blood clot to form on the plaque's surface. If the clot becomes large enough, it can mostly or completely block blood flow through a coronary artery.

If the blockage isn't treated quickly, the portion of heart muscle fed by the artery begins to die. Healthy heart tissue is replaced with scar tissue. This heart damage may not be obvious, or it may cause severe or long-lasting problems.

Heart With Muscle Damage and a Blocked Artery

Figure A is an overview of a heart and coronary artery showing damage (dead heart muscle) caused by a heart attack. Figure B is a cross-section of the coronary artery with plaque buildup and a blood clot.
Figure A is an overview of a heart and coronary artery showing damage (dead heart muscle) caused by a heart attack. Figure B is a cross-section of the coronary artery with plaque buildup and a blood clot.
A less common cause of heart attack is a severe spasm (tightening) of a coronary artery. The spasm cuts off blood flow through the artery. Spasms can occur in coronary arteries that aren't affected by atherosclerosis.

Heart attacks can be associated with or lead to severe health problems, such as heart failure and life-threatening …show more content…
Treatment works best when it's given right after symptoms occur.

Many people aren't sure what's wrong when they are having symptoms of a heart attack. Some of the most common warning symptoms of a heart attack for both men and women are:

Chest pain or discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center or left side of the chest. The discomfort usually lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. It can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. It also can feel like heartburn or indigestion.
Upper body discomfort. You may feel pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, shoulders, neck, jaw, or upper part of the stomach (above the belly button).
Shortness of breath. This may be your only symptom, or it may occur before or along with chest pain or discomfort. It can occur when you are resting or doing a little bit of physical activity.
Other possible symptoms of a heart attack include:

Breaking out in a cold sweat
Feeling unusually tired for no reason, sometimes for days (especially if you are a woman)
Nausea (feeling sick to the stomach) and

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Coronary Artery Disease Research Paper

...Today, thousands of different individuals suffer from many different types of diseases all around the world. These diseases vary in many different ways such as the part of the body they effect, how serious they are, and how they are obtained. The human body has five vital organs that are needed to survive. These vital organs are the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and the lungs. One major type of disease that has effected thousands of people all around the world is Coronary Artery Disease. This disease is targeted towards the heart and the arteries used to pump blood throughout the body. There are several different issues that can be discussed about this specific disease such symptoms, the cause and effect, and types of treatments and procedures to help reduce the risk of Coronary Artery Disease....

Words: 437 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Atherosclerotic Plaque Layer Analysis

...cause of coronary heart artery diseases. Heart artery plaque layer analysis is one of the most important and challenging problem, which can be determined by using Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Cross Sectional images, which is an excellent ultrasound study system for extracting and to easily identifying the plaque layer by using the shape parameter measurements. This paper presents and elucidates the new approach to find out the coronary artery plaque with the help of the artery cross sectional layers determination, which are adventitia, media, intima and lumen layers. This system measures the layer’s performance to make the clear way to identifying the plaque layer, which proposes a new method...

Words: 826 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

The Heart

...Research Paper The human heart is a very vital, interesting, and complex organ. It continuously pumps blood through the body for the entire life. It’s made of muscle and is very strong and yet at the same time, can be very vulnerable to disease. The heart is a very important organ. What's so unusual about it is that it is that it never gets tired. There are four parts of the heart, right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium, and the left ventricle. Oxygen-poor blood flows from the body and to the right atrium. Blood flows through the right atrium and into the right ventricle. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs where the blood releases waste like carbon dioxide and picks up oxygen. The newly oxygen-rich blood returns to the heart and enters the left atrium. Then the blood flows through the left atrium and into the left ventricle. The left ventricle pumps the oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body. The heart truly works in an amazing way by pumping blood through the circulatory system which is made up of blood vessels. Blood vessels are like bend-e straws except a stronger tube. Blood vessels carry blood to all the parts of the body. Blood carries fresh oxygen from the lungs and nutrients to the body’s tissues, it also takes the body’s waste products, including carbon dioxide away from the tissues. It’s necessary to sustain life and promote the health of all parts of the body. Arteries begin at the aorta, a large artery leaving the heart. Arteries carry oxygen-rich...

Words: 818 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Heart Disease Research Paper

...The magnitude of Heart Disease in the United States Name: Institutional Affiliation The magnitude of Heart Disease in the United States Heart disease refers to a range of conditions impacting the heart (MFMER, 2018). In the US, the most prevalent form of heart disease is coronary heart disease. This disease interferes with the flow of blood to the heart. A reduction in the flow of blood results in a heart attack (CCD, 2015). There are also other diseases under the umbrella of heart disease including arrhythmias and congenital heart defects. In most cases, heart disease as a term is used interchangeably with cardiovascular disease (MFMER, 2018). However, it must be emphasized that cardiovascular disease basically describes...

Words: 2431 - Pages: 10

Premium Essay

Patho-Pharm

...University June 2016 A. Disease Process For the purpose of discussion of pathopharmacological features of a specific disease process, this paper will provide information related to heart disease in the form of coronary artery disease (CAD). A1. Pathophysiology Analysis Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of mortality worldwide and becoming a steadily more investigated problem due to its prevalence. Much research is going into genetic, inflammatory mechanisms and neuro-hormonal factors related to CVD as scientific knowledge evolves regarding complexity of this broad pathophysiology. Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of the subsection of CVD called CAD. This is a form of arteriosclerosis where there is progressive thickening and hardening of the vessel walls of the two major coronary arteries and their branches. The thickening is an accumulation of lipid-laden macrophages inside the wall of the artery leading to the formation of lesions and plaque buildup (McCance, K. & Huether, S., 2014). When the plaque develops on the coronary artery walls the pumping ability of the heart becomes impaired as oxygen and nutrients needed for heart function may be partially or completely impeded. Complete occlusion of a coronary artery or one of its branches leads to a myocardial infarction (MI) evidenced by impaired myocardial metabolism and ischemic tissue death. Depending upon the location or branch of the artery where occlusion takes place...

Words: 4865 - Pages: 20

Premium Essay

Cardiovascular Risks

...Cardiovascular disease also called heart disease includes numerous problems, many of which are related to a process called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition that develops when a substance called plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through. If a blood clot forms, it can stop the blood flow. This can cause a heart attack or stroke (“What is Cardiovascular Disease (Heart Disease)?”). The purpose of this paper is to discuss the risk factors associated with a previous client that I cared for in the clinical setting and to include rationale and some behaviors that could reduce these risks. The patient that I will be focusing on is a 56 year old female of polish descent whom I will refer to as I.G. She was admitted to UMC with a chief complaint of left knee pain. Her admitting diagnosis was a left distal femur fracture and has a medical history of congestive heart failure, hyperlipidemia, glaucoma, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertensive disorder, GERD, and diabetes. She admitted that diabetes runs in her family and she also has a history of smoking and obesity evidenced by her BMI of 32.1. Diabetes Diabetes Mellitus is associated with a reduced life span, largely as a result of cardiovascular disease and most patients die as a result of a thrombotic event. Patients with diabetes are at increased risk for CVD. This risk affects women more than men and is influenced by the client’s...

Words: 1669 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Atherosclerosis

...Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaque builds up inside arteries, limiting or stopping the flow of blood to the organs tissues. The purpose of this paper is to relate the underlining cellular events of atherosclerosis to its pathology and treatment. In this paper I will discuss the causes that influence the events and advancement of atherosclerosis. I will review the risk factors, pathogenesis, signs & symptoms, dietary implications and drug treatments. Atherosclerosis Atherosclerosis is a progressive process that leads to the hardening and thickening of arteries. This is caused by plaque build-up due to the accumulation of lipid-laden macrophages (McCance& Huether. 2010). The formation of plaque deposits can slow down or block the flow of blood to other parts of the body, depriving the organs of oxygen. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process that affects the body’s whole vascular system leading to many coronary artery and cerebrovascular diseases Etiology: There are many theories pertaining to the etiology but, studies are still unclear about the direct cause of atherosclerosis (Mallika, Goswami, & Rajappa, 2007). Risk factors There are many risk factors that lead to the progression of atherosclerosis. The risk factors all led to an excessive amount of cholesterol in the blood which can lead to plaque build-up ( Mallika, Goswami & Rajappa, 2007). Here are some atherosclerosis risk factors, increased age, obesity, genetics, Hyperlipidemia; which is high...

Words: 1432 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Cardiovascular Disease

...Cardiovascular Disease Name Institution Date Background Throughout my years of occupation as a dental hygienist, I have come across various dental problems. Children as well as adult are capable of succumbing to the various dental illnesses. Nicholas (2011) attests that there underlies a great relationship amid oral inflammatory issue and cardiovascular processes. In other words, Nicholas’s research aims at showcasing that most oral inflammatory issue are likely to lead to cardiovascular dilemmas. The ultimate implication on this particular study is that regular dental care processes play a pragmatic role in preventing most cardiovascular diseases. The following paper is a comprehensive research in which in which I seek to uncover the history of cardiovascular disease as well as how it affects dental practices. History An American Heart Association commonly abbreviated as (AHA) describes the various heart disease as cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular illnesses are a leading cause of death throughout the world. Cardiovascular disease dates from several years back. The period at which the disease is said to have come into existence is commonly known as the ancient Egypt. However, it is worth to note that the vast society has only become enlightened regarding the cause a well as the effects of the cardiovascular illnesses just in the wake of the 20th Century despite the ancient history of the disease. As a health practitioner, the implication underlying this revelation...

Words: 2001 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Coronary Heart Disease Research Paper

...Abstract Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) is the most common disease of the blood vessels. Affecting about 8.5 million people in the United States of America, PVD is more prevalent in older adults, smokers, diabetics, and people with high blood pressure. Individuals who have a family history of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and stroke are also at increased risk. In diabetics and older adults, PVD is the leading cause of disability. Although PVD can be asymptomatic, there are a few different tests which can diagnose it. There are many misconceptions about PVD. Most people, especially older adults, believe the pain associated with PVD is a sign of normal aging. Many people believe, after being diagnosed with PVD, the only treatment option involves surgery and amputation. Even though surgery is a treatment option, the use of medications and other medical...

Words: 1156 - Pages: 5

Free Essay

Pancreas Disorder

...Asian J. Pharm. Tech. 2013; Vol. 3: Issue 1, Pg 26-29 [AJPTech.] ISSN- 2231–5705 (Print) www.asianpharmaonline.org ISSN- 2231–5713 (Online) 0974-3618 RESEARCH ARTICLE Effects of Methanolic Extracts of Quisqualis indica (Aerial Parts) on Passive Smoking Induced Hyperlipidemia in Rats Jyoti Sahu*1,2, Pushpendra Kumar Patel1,2 and Balkrishna Dubey1 T.I.T. College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Anand Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India- 462021 SBRL Indrapuri, Bhopal (M.P.) *Corresponding Author E-mail: jyotisahupharma@gmail.com 2 1 ABSTRACT: In the present study the hypolipidemic activity of methanolic extracts of aerial parts of Quisqualis indica (QI) including flowers on passive smoking (PS) induced hyperlipidemia in rats had been evaluated. Hyperlipidemia was induced by passive smoking in a closed chamber having 1 burning ciggrette inside it. The hypolipidemic activity was analysed by reading the blood serum level in UV at 505 nm after treated with reagent present in auto span diagnostic kit. Dose of Methanolic extracts of QI had been prepared by using distilled water i.e. 200 mg/kg p.o. Methanolic extracts of QI significantly reduce the harmful lipid layer in blood serum at varying concentration and dose dependent manner which shows that the plant carries the hypolipidemic properties. It reduces the LDL, VLDL, cholesterol, triglyceride and raise HDL level in blood serum upto certain extent which was may be due to the inhibition of lipid peroxidation as the plants...

Words: 3376 - Pages: 14

Premium Essay

Atherosclerosis

...Atherosclerosis Basher I. Emtebakh Wright State University Laboratory Research 2, Spring 2013 CURRENT DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS 2 Abstract Atherosclerosis is a complex inflammatory process that affects the arterial wall. People of different ages are susceptible to developing the disease. It is considered the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Epithelial injury caused by different risk factors is the initial process of the disease. Nitric oxide liberation, lipid retention, and inflammatory cell proliferation are of significance in the disease pathogenesis. The goal of this review is to better understand the disease process and the role of the atherogenic biomarkers that develop in the affected site during the disease progression. Determining the risk of atherogenic plaque development vulnerability is the main obstacle that faces scientists, followed by making proper diagnosis and choosing treatment. Different imaging techniques, especially the non invasive ones, provide highly useful images to characterize the plaque development. These techniques also contributed to cure many patients at risk of plaque rupture. Prevention and treatment of the disease depend mainly on the proper education of patients and people at risk of developing the disease, and that is done by changing their life style to minimize the risk factors that increase their incidence of getting the disease. Eating healthy food, stopping smoking, and exercising are the main...

Words: 4999 - Pages: 20

Free Essay

Stem Cells & Cardia Disease

...Stem cell research is one that is widely debated amongst various religions, cultures, and political groups. The question as to when life actually begins is the epicenter of this worldwide quarrel, and may not be settled for some time. Although this may be true, one fact that cannot be denied is that stem cell research has led to many life saving discoveries in various sectors of scientific research. In regards to the ethical dilemma of stem cells, recent developments in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have made it possible to explore the applications of stem cells while avoiding the ethical problems associated with embryonic stem cell research (Seki & Fekuda, 2015). One intriguing area in stem cell research is the potential applications for them in the treatment of cardiac diseases. Studies have explored the potential uses for stem cells for the treatment of heart disease (Yamakawa & Ieda, 2015). Additionally, stem cells have been explored for the treatment of heart failure and myocardial infarction (Rasmussen, et al., 2013). Stem cells and how they may be used for the treatment of various cardiac diseases is an exciting topic and has the potential to change future approaches to the treatment. This paper will examine the applications and significance of stem cells in relation to these common cardiac pathologies. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in developed countries and currently there are few effective treatment options available (Yamakawa & Ieda...

Words: 1567 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Psy/210 Psychology and Health Problems

...revealed that there is not a distinct straightforward answer to the multitude of questions that arise. When determining how one’s health and susceptibility to stress-related illness is affected, the multifactoral model illustrates a wide range of factors that consist of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors as well as the interactions of each. This paper will discuss potential health problems associated with each factor and how psychology’s role helps to recognize and control these health concerns. Biological factors are one of the apparent roles that help to determine the risk of an individual illness. Because biological factors are linked to an individual’s genetics, these factors are not able to be controlled by individuals. Some of these biological factors include inoculations, age, gender, injuries, birth defects disabilities, and family history disease. Most of these issues are a lifelong factor that begins in an individual’s childhood. Considering an individual’s genetics, one can determine if a person can acquire a behavior trait or become diagnosed with breast cancer or heart disease. One example would be an individual that drinks alcohol excessively triggered by his or her genetics and family history. The person’s immune system would be in danger because the liver to limit the amount of hormones necessary to fully operate causing illness. Another example is a woman taking the required test to determine whether or not she carries the...

Words: 1178 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Nutrition Research Critique

...range of translated articles reaches approximately 140,000 (New England Journal of Medicine.org, 2006). The NORVIT study was designed as a randomized, controlled, double-blind, intervention study. It included 3,749 men and women who had suffered and acute myocardial infarction within the last 7 days. The rationale behind the study was that high homocysteine levels are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (Bonaa et al, 2006). The aim was to measure how effective lowering blood serum homocysteine levels with B vitamins was in preventing a secondary event. A collaborative meta-analysis published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, states that homocysteine levels are an independent predictor of ischemic heart disease and that studies on disease risk of genetic variants affecting homocysteine may help establish whether homocysteine is causally linked to vascular disease (2002: cited by Bonaa et al, 2006). The meta-analysis suggests that a large randomized trial of vitamin supplementation to lower homocysteine levels and the effect on heart disease should be carried out (The Journal of the American Medical Association 2002: cited by Bonaa et al, 2006). Looking at a study by in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, which looked at the lowest dose of folic acid associated with the maximum reduction in homocysteine concentrations...

Words: 3026 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

The Role of Technology in Rising Health Care Costs. What Should or Shouldn’t Be Done.

...The Role of Technology in Rising Health Care Costs. What should or shouldn’t be done. Neha Para, MPH Student 5453-001 US Health Care System University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center December 8, 2010 Abstract Health care costs are a longstanding concern to policymakers. For years, health care spending has been rising faster than the rate of economic growth, raising the question of what factors are responsible for rising health care costs. This paper explores published articles that report results from research conducted on technological innovations in health care and its relation to rising health care costs. The cost increases have a significant effect on households, businesses, and government programs. Health care experts indicates the development and diffusion of medical technology as primary factors in explaining the persistent difference between health spending and overall economic growth, with some arguing that new medical technology may account for about one-half or more of real long-term spending growth. Rising health care expenditures lead to the question of whether we are getting value for the money we spend. On an average, increases in medical spending as a result of advances in medical care have provided reasonable value. An alternative viewpoint holds that although new technologies represent medical advances, they are prone to overuse and thereby excess cost. Most of the suggestions to slow the growth in new medical technology in the U.S. focus on...

Words: 5135 - Pages: 21