Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) refers to a set of heart rhythm disorders characterised by an abnormally fast heart rate originating from the atria or other structures above the ventricles. In SVT, the heart rate typically exceeds 100 beats per minute and may reach 150-250 beats per minute. Pathophysiology – Normally impulse travels in one direction i.e […]
Atrial fibrillation (Afib)
Atrial fibrillation (often abbreviated as Afib or AF) is a common type of cardiac arrhythmia, characterised by disorganised electrical activity in the atria leading to ineffective atrial contraction and an irregular, often rapid, ventricular response. This condition can significantly impact cardiac function and increase the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications Pathophysiology The pathophysiology […]
Atrial Flutter
Atrial flutter is a type of supra-ventricular tachycardia characterised by a rapid, regular heartbeat originating from the atria. This condition is often associated with a “sawtooth” pattern on an electrocardiogram (ECG), indicating the rapid and organised nature of atrial electrical activity. Understanding the pathophysiology, causes, symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options for atrial flutter is […]
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Altered Physiology in Relation to Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) encompasses a range of conditions affecting the blood vessels outside of the heart and brain, including both arterial and venous components. Here’s a detailed look at the altered physiology associated with both types of PVD: 1. Arterial Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD) Arterial […]
Hypertension
Altered Physiology in Relation to Hypertension Hypertension, or high blood pressure, results from complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and physiological factors. Here’s an overview of the altered physiology that contributes to and results from hypertension: 1. Vascular Resistance 2. Cardiac Output 3. Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) 4. Endothelial Dysfunction 5. Sympathetic Nervous System 6. Genetic and […]
Cardiac Arrest causes (4H & 4T)
I Potential Causes of Cardiac Arrest: The 4 H’s and 4 T’s The 4 H’s 2. Hypovolemia: 3. Hypothermia/Hyperthermia 4. Hypo-/Hyperkalemia and Other Metabolic Disturbances (Hydrogen Ions H+ pH): The 4 T’s 2. Tamponade (Cardiac): 3. Toxins (Drug Overdose): 4. Thrombosis (Pulmonary or Coronary):
Cardiac vrs Skeletal Muscle
Comparison of Cardiac Muscle and Skeletal Muscle Feature Cardiac Muscle Skeletal Muscle Structure Involuntary, single nucleus, abundant mitochondria Voluntary, multi-nucleated, fewer mitochondria Function. Pumps blood Movement of bones and joints Control Involuntary, self-excitable Voluntary Contraction Rhythmic, sustained Voluntary, short bursts Blood Supply Dedicated network (coronary arteries) Increases with activity Regeneration Limited Higher capacity Additional Details […]
Cardiac Action Potential
The cardiac action potential is a sequence of electrical events that occur in the heart muscle cells (myocytes) to trigger their contraction. These action potentials are essential for the proper functioning of the heart, ensuring coordinated and rhythmic contractions. The action potential in cardiac cells is typically divided into five phases (0-4). Phases of the […]
Coronary 🫀Circulation
The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle (myocardium). They originate from the base of the aorta and branch out to cover the surface of the heart. Major Coronary Arteries Coronary Veins The coronary veins are responsible for draining deoxygenated blood from the myocardium and returning it to the right […]
Factors confirm Sinus Rhythm
Sinus rhythm is the normal regular rhythm of the heart where the electrical impulses originate from the sinoatrial (SA) node. Confirming sinus rhythm on an electrocardiogram (ECG) involves checking several key factors: Factors Confirming Sinus Rhythm on an ECG 2. P Waves: 3. PR Interval: 4. QRS Complex: 5. Regularity: 6. Heart Rate: 7. P […]