coronary heart disease

• coronary heart disease:

  • non communicable disease
  • coronary arteries become blocked with the buildup of fatty material
  • results in less blood flowing to heart - reduces oxygen supply
  • may lead to a heart attack
• stents:

  • mesh metal tubes inserted in arteries
  • keep arteries open
  • effective in lowering risk of heart attack
  • recovery time from surgery is quick
  • risk of heart attack during procedure
  • infection could occur
  • chance that blood clots form near stent - thrombosis
• statins:

  • drugs that decrease levels of ldl - bad cholesterol
  • reduce the risk of strokes, chd, and heart attacks
  • increase levels of hdl - good cholesterol
  • need to be taken continuosly
  • can produce side effects
  • may not have immediate effect
• biological valve replacement:

  • usually from pigs or cattle
  • works very well
  • only lasts 12-15 years
  • ethical/religious issues
  • rejection
• mechanical valve replacement:

  • lasts for a long time
  • constant medication is needed to stop blood clotting around the valve
• biological heart transplant:

  • treats heart failure
  • requires a donor who recently died
  • not always available
  • procedure could cause infection
  • rejection
• artificial heart transplant:

  • less likely to be rejected by immune system
  • procedure could cause infection
  • mechanical parts could wear out
  • temporary solution
  • blood clots could form - lead to strokes, so drugs are taken to thin blood