TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack): Definition and Description of TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack): A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is often referred to as a “mini-stroke”. It occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is temporarily disrupted, leading to a short-lived episode of neurological dysfunction. The effects of a TIA usually last for a…
PVD (Peripheral Vascular Disease): Definition and Description of PVD (Peripheral Vascular Disease): PVD, or Peripheral Vascular Disease, refers to a common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. This condition typically affects blood vessels outside of the heart and brain, leading to symptoms like pain when walking and coldness in…
Plaque: Definition and Description of Plaque: Plaque refers to a buildup of substances in the bloodstream, organs, or tissues which can lead to serious health complications. Medically, plaque is often described as a fatty deposit that can accumulate in the arteries, known as atherosclerotic plaque. This condition can hinder blood flow and increase the risk…
LDL Cholesterol Definition and Description of LDL Cholesterol Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because high levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Cholesterol itself is a waxy substance found in every cell of the body and is essential…
Heart Disease Definition and Description of Heart Disease Heart disease refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function, leading to a variety of cardiovascular issues. The term encompasses various heart-related disorders including coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects. Medically, heart disease is often defined as a condition stemming…
CAD (Coronary Artery Disease) Definition and Description of CAD (Coronary Artery Disease) CAD, or Coronary Artery Disease, is a chronic condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, the blood vessels responsible for supplying the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. This condition typically stems from a build-up of plaque — a mixture of…
Angina Definition and Description of Angina Angina is a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort, often stemming from reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is typically a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), where the arteries become narrowed or blocked, leading to insufficient blood supply. Angina can present itself in various forms,…
