Question

Write a short note on:
(I) Heartbeat and pulse
(ii) Hypertension
(iii) Coronary artery disease
(iv) Angina Pectoris
(v) Heart failure

Answer 1

Hint: They are related to the cardiovascular system.

Complete answer: (i) Heartbeat and pulse: Heartbeat is the rhythmic contraction of the cardiac muscles. There are two heartbeats in one cycle that corresponds to the ventricular systole and the ventricular diastole. Pulse is the peripheral waves felt as a result of the blood pumped out of the heart.
It is usually felt as the radial, femoral, popliteal, carotid, inguinal, dorsalis pedis, and posterior tibial pulse.
(ii) Hypertension: It is a condition in which the force of the blood against the arterial walls is too high. Usually, hypertension is defined as the blood pressure is above 140/90.
It is considered severe if the pressure is above 180/120.
High blood pressure or hypertension often has no symptoms. If left untreated, it can cause health conditions such as heart disease and stroke over time.
(iii) Coronary artery disease: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the narrowing/ blockage of the coronary arteries (arteries supplying the cardiac muscles). It is usually caused by atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of cholesterol and other fatty deposits known as plaques on the inner walls of the arteries.
(iv) Angina pectoris: Angina pectoris is the medical term for chest pain or discomfort caused due to coronary heart disease (CAD). It occurs when the heart/ cardiac muscles don't get enough blood to meet the requirements. This usually happens because one or more of the heart's arteries is narrowed or blocked as seen in atherosclerosis.
(v) Heart Failure: It is a chronic condition wherein the heart doesn't pump blood effectively to meet the body’s demand. It can occur if the heart cannot pump (systolic) or fill (diastolic) adequately.
Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, swollen legs, and rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).

Note: Treatment of cardiac complications includes eating less salt and limiting fluid intake and taking prescription medication. In some cases, a defibrillator or a pacemaker may be implanted to aid the cardiac functions.