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Showing posts with the label Heart Disease

Angiography Explained: A Clear View of the Vascular System

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  *Introduction - Angiography is a critical medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs of the body, especially the heart and brain. The procedure primarily helps detect abnormalities in the vascular system, such as blockages, aneurysms, or malformations. Since its development in the early 20th century, angiography has become an indispensable tool in both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, contributing significantly to advances in cardiology, neurology, and vascular surgery. What is Angiography? Angiography is a radiological technique where a contrast agent (usually iodine-based dye) is injected into the blood vessels, and X-ray-based imaging (such as fluoroscopy, CT, or MRI) is used to capture detailed images of the circulatory system. These images help physicians assess the structure and functionality of blood vessels, detect anomalies, and plan interventions. History and Evolution Angiography was first introduc...

"Saving Lives: Your Guide to Myocardial Infarction Awareness"

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- Myocardial infarction, or heart attack, occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often by plaque build-up. - Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea, but they can vary, especially in women and the elderly. - Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, and family history, among others. - The evidence leans toward immediate treatment with aspirin and procedures like angioplasty to restore blood flow.   *Definition - Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, happens when the blood supply to part of the heart is severely reduced or blocked, usually due to plaque (cholesterol-containing deposits) in the coronary arteries. This blockage can lead to heart muscle damage or death if not treated promptly.   *Symptoms - Symptoms often include chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing, and can radiate to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, jaw, or upper belly. Other signs include ...

From Blocked Arteries to Better Health: Atherosclerosis Explained

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- Atherosclerosis involves plaque build-up in arteries, likely narrowing blood flow and increasing heart disease risk.  - Its causes include high cholesterol, smoking, and high blood pressure, though exact reasons are complex.   - Symptoms may not appear early but can include chest pain or leg pain as it progresses; it seems likely severe cases lead to strokes.   - Treatment and prevention likely involve lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, with medications for severe cases, though approaches vary.     *What is Atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque—made of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances—builds up in the walls of arteries. This can narrow and harden the arteries, restricting blood flow to vital organs and tissues. It is a type of arteriosclerosis, meaning hardening of the arteries, and can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.   *Causes - The ex...