Category: Valvular & cardiovascular diseases

Coronary heart diseases

The Impact of a Snowstorm on the Heart

In the medical field, particularly in cardiology, an increase in emergency room visits is often observed following a snowstorm. Shoveling is frequently identified as the main trigger for these cardiac events. But is this merely a myth, or is it a well-documented medical reality?

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Coronary heart diseases

Coronary Restenosis Post-Angioplasty

A common and perfectly legitimate question after a coronary artery dilation procedure is: “How long will it last?”
In answering this question, the term “restenosis” is likely to come up, often raising additional questions.

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Heart failure

Stress-induced Cardiomyopathy- Takotsubo- A Medical Perspective

Takotsubo syndrome is a heart condition classified under the family of cardiomyopathies. Also known as broken heart syndrome, apical ballooning, or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, this disorder is characterized by a temporary weakening of the heart muscle, often triggered by intense emotional or physical stress.

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Heart failure

Heart Failure – Generalities

Heart failure is a chronic condition. Although advancements in treatment have improved outcomes, it remains a serious condition, particularly for those with a reduced ejection fraction.
Worldwide, millions of people are affected by this disease. In Canada, approximately 1% of the adult population lives with this condition, and its prevalence increases to 10% among individuals over the age of 65.

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How it works

Sinus Bradycardia

When the heart rate drops below 60 beats per minute, it is referred to as bradycardia. This slower rate can be a natural response or, in some cases, a sign of a rhythm disorder.

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Valvular & cardiovascular diseases

High Blood Pressure

Although this disease has been known for centuries, its exact origin remains poorly understood. Hypertension is responsible for approximately 50% of cardiovascular incidents, contributing to nearly 10 million deaths each year, making it one of the leading risk factors for premature death (before age 65).

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Coronary heart diseases

Coronary Angioplasty (PCI)

Coronary angioplasty is a procedure aimed at repairing narrowed or blocked coronary arteries caused by cholesterol plaques. This procedure is usually performed following a coronary angiography, which allows visualization of the narrowing presents in the coronary arteries.
The intervention involves inserting a small balloon into the blocked artery and then inflating it to widen the vessel. In most cases, a stent (endoprosthesis) is then placed to keep the artery open.

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Coronary heart diseases

Unstable Angina- NSTEMI

When a blood clot partially obstructs a coronary artery or one of its branches, the heart muscle supplied by this artery continues to receive oxygen, but in insufficient amounts. This precarious condition is known as unstable angina, now referred to in medical terms as Non-STEMI (Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction).

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Coronary heart diseases

Coronary heart disease (Angina)

Coronary artery disease is caused by the buildup of cholesterol plaques in one or more of the heart’s arteries. The classic symptom, known as angina, presents as chest pain at the center of the chest, often radiating to the left arm and jaw.
This pain is typically relieved quickly with rest and reoccurs with similar exertion. It is important to note that this presentation can vary in form.

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How it works

Heart Murmur

A heart murmur is a sound heard when listening to the heart with a stethoscope. It results from the turbulence of blood flow through the heart’s valves, causing the surrounding walls to vibrate, which produces this characteristic sound.

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