Cardiovascular Disease and Atherosclerosis

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Questions and Answers

What is the term for the group of medical conditions that affect the functioning of the heart and blood vessels?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

What is the name of the disease that affects the arteries that supply the heart and often leads to heart attack?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) or heart disease

What is the term for the abnormal functioning of the carotid arteries in the neck that provide blood to the brain?

Carotid artery disease

How does COVID-19 pose an increased risk of heart attack in people with cardiovascular disease?

The generalized inflammation caused by COVID-19 can damage heart muscle tissue, cause blood clots to form, and directly infect heart cells, worsening heart failure. Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the chronic condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated?

Hypertension Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the disease that affects the arteries that supply the arms and legs (limbs) and pelvic region?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) Signup and view all the answers

What is atherosclerosis, and what is the process by which it occurs?

Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in the inner lining of arteries, leading to their narrowing and hardening. It occurs through the accumulation of fatty deposits, inflammatory cells, and fibrous tissue in the artery walls. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol in relation to cardiovascular health?

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is considered 'good' cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is considered 'bad' cholesterol because it carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells, potentially building up in the artery walls and contributing to atherosclerosis. Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a thrombus or part of a plaque that breaks free from where it formed and travels through the bloodstream?

Embolus Signup and view all the answers

In which arteries is the blood supply vulnerable to damage by atherosclerosis?

Arteries in the kidneys, eyes, and legs Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries in the neck?

Decreased blood flow to the brain and formation of clots that can cause a stroke Signup and view all the answers

Why does atherosclerosis contribute to the development of hypertension?

Because it causes affected arteries to thicken and lose their flexibility Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of lipoproteins in the development of atherosclerosis?

They transport cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream Signup and view all the answers

What type of lipoprotein is the largest and least dense?

Chylomicron Signup and view all the answers

What is the leading cause of death in the United States, and what percentage of deaths is it responsible for?

Heart disease (CAD), approximately 28% Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of HDL in the bloodstream?

It conveys lipids away from tissues and to the liver for processing and elimination Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of LDL in the bloodstream?

It transports lipids to tissues for use in cell structures and vital compounds Signup and view all the answers

What is atherosclerosis, and how does it affect the functioning of arteries?

Atherosclerosis is a chronic process where the arterial lining is irritated, leading to inflammation and the deposition of cholesterol, fat, and other substances under the lining, forming plaque that narrows and blocks the artery. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the 'good' or 'bad' classification of cholesterol no longer helpful in predicting a person's risk of atherosclerosis?

Because it is an oversimplification Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis?

Inflammation stimulates healing, but it also triggers certain cells to deposit cholesterol under the artery's lining, leading to the formation of plaque. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a healthy artery and an atherosclerotic artery?

A healthy artery has a smooth lining, while an atherosclerotic artery has a rough lining with plaque that narrows and blocks the artery. Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of hypertension on the heart?

It must work harder to circulate blood through abnormally stiff arteries Signup and view all the answers

What is a thrombus, and how does it affect blood flow?

A thrombus is a fixed bunch of clots that remains in place and disrupts blood flow, partially or completely blocking an artery. Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of a thrombus completely blocking blood flow to a section of the heart muscle?

A myocardial infarction (heart attack) occurs, leading to tissue death and potentially sudden death. Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of a thrombus blocking an artery in the brain?

Brain cells that are nourished by the blocked vessel die, leading to a stroke. Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of a thrombus blocking an artery in a limb?

Tissue in the extremity dies, leading to gangrene, and potentially requiring amputation to prevent life-threatening infection. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for blood to clot, especially when blood vessels have been injured?

Blood clotting prevents excessive bleeding and potential death from a minor injury. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease?

COVID-19 can cause heart failure in people with no history of cardiovascular disease, and researchers need to determine the short- and long-term effects of the virus on the heart. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why oxidized LDL cholesterol is harmful to the body?

Oxidized lipids carried by LDL cholesterol are taken up by arterial cells that form plaque. Signup and view all the answers

How does cigarette smoking contribute to the development of atherosclerosis?

Cigarette smoking increases the production of oxidized LDL cholesterol. Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of oxidized HDL cholesterol on cardiovascular health?

Oxidized HDL cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between VLDL and LDL in terms of their lipid composition?

VLDL carries a larger amount of triglycerides than cholesterol, while LDL carries more cholesterol. Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of excessive alcohol and refined carbohydrate intake on VLDL production?

Excessive alcohol and refined carbohydrate intake stimulate VLDL production in the liver. Signup and view all the answers

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, what is the significance of having multiple risk factors for atherosclerosis?

Having multiple risk factors increases the likelihood of developing CVD. Signup and view all the answers

What is the age at which men and women are more likely to develop atherosclerosis?

Men are more likely to develop atherosclerosis after age 45, and women after age 55. Signup and view all the answers

How does a person's genetic makeup influence their risk of atherosclerosis?

Genetics can code for physical conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, and influence the response to diet. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of oxidized LDL cholesterol in the development of atherosclerosis?

Oxidized LDL cholesterol promotes inflammation and atherosclerosis when it binds to the walls of arteries. Signup and view all the answers

Why is having a high level of HDL cholesterol not necessarily a sign of good cardiovascular health?

Some forms of HDL may transport oxidized cholesterol, which is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of B vitamins in relation to homocysteine?

B vitamins (B-6, B-12, and folate) help convert homocysteine into safer compounds. Signup and view all the answers

What is the association between homocysteine and cardiovascular disease?

Elevated blood levels of homocysteine may injure arterial walls and contribute to atherosclerosis. Signup and view all the answers

Why is hypertension referred to as a 'silent disease'?

Hypertension is referred to as a 'silent disease' because people with the condition frequently feel healthy and do not have obvious symptoms. Signup and view all the answers

How does excess body fat, particularly in the abdominal region, contribute to cardiovascular disease?

Excess body fat, especially in the abdominal region, increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of tobacco use on cardiovascular disease?

Tobacco use increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, and exposure to secondhand smoke is also a risk factor. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to modify lifestyle choices to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis?

Modifiable risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, excess body fat, and physical inactivity, can be influenced by diet and exercise. Signup and view all the answers

What is the association between metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease?

People with metabolic syndrome have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Signup and view all the answers

How does sodium intake contribute to the development of hypertension?

High intakes of sodium are associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of elevated blood lipids on cardiovascular disease?

Elevated blood lipids, particularly certain lipoproteins, are a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to address modifiable risk factors for atherosclerosis?

Modifiable risk factors, such as tobacco use and physical inactivity, can be changed to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary component of e-liquids that can contribute to atherosclerosis and poor cardiovascular health?

Nicotine Signup and view all the answers

How does emotional stress contribute to the development of atherosclerosis?

By causing physical changes in the body that can damage arteries, and leading to unhealthy lifestyle choices Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between a risk factor and a cause of disease, as seen in the context of atherosclerosis?

A risk factor increases the chances of developing the disease, but is not the sole cause, whereas a cause is the primary reason for the disease Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to fast for 12 hours before a lipoprotein profile test?

To obtain an accurate measurement of usual blood lipoprotein levels, as levels can be elevated for a few hours after eating or drinking Signup and view all the answers

What is the desirable range for total cholesterol in mg/dl, according to Table 6.5?

Less than 200 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of regular medical checkups in assessing the risk of atherosclerosis?

To check blood pressure and blood flow in the carotid arteries, and to assess lipid levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between serum and plasma in the context of medical testing?

Serum is the liquid portion of blood, whereas plasma is similar to serum but contains clotting factors Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to understand the complexity of atherosclerosis and its multiple risk factors?

To reduce or eliminate modifiable risk factors and forestall cardiovascular disease Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary way to assess whether the carotid arteries are becoming blocked during a medical checkup?

By listening to blood flow in the carotid arteries Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to reduce or eliminate modifiable risk factors for atherosclerosis?

To live a longer, more satisfying life and forestall cardiovascular disease Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

CVD is a group of medical conditions that affect the functioning of the heart and blood vessels
Some forms of CVD are the result of birth defects, inherited conditions, and infections
Includes coronary artery disease (CAD), carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and chronic high blood pressure (hypertension)

Atherosclerosis

A chronic process that negatively affects the functioning of arteries
Results from the deposit of cholesterol and other substances in the arterial walls, leading to the formation of plaques
Plaques can rupture, causing blood clots to form, which can lead to heart attack or stroke
Contributes to the development of hypertension, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke

Lipoproteins and Atherosclerosis

Lipoproteins transport cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream
Three major types of lipoproteins: chylomicrons, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
HDL is the smallest and densest lipoprotein, transports cholesterol away from tissues and to the liver for processing and elimination
LDL transports cholesterol to tissues, where it can be used to make cell structures and vital compounds
Oxidized LDL cholesterol is taken up by plaque-forming arterial cells, contributing to atherosclerosis

Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis

Modifiable risk factors:
- Unhealthy diet
- Hypertension
- Insulin resistance and diabetes
- Elevated blood cholesterol (especially LDL cholesterol)
- Excess body fat
- Physical inactivity
- Tobacco use or exposure to tobacco smoke
Nonmodifiable risk factors:
- Family history of CVD
- Increasing age
Other risk factors:
- Homocysteine levels (associated with CVD)
- Genetics (family history)
- Emotional stress (particularly anger)

Reducing the Risk of Atherosclerosis

Modifying lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis
Avoiding tobacco use, limiting intake of saturated fat, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy body weight can all help reduce the risk
Reducing sodium intake, managing diabetes, and maintaining healthy blood pressure can also help reduce the risk### Diet and Atherosclerosis
Diet influences the likelihood of atherosclerosis and is highly modifiable.

Medical Testing for Atherosclerosis

Regular medical checkups can determine the risk of atherosclerosis.
Blood pressure and blood flow in carotid arteries are checked to assess artery blockage.
A lipoprotein profile is requested to assess:
- Total serum cholesterol level
- Serum HDL cholesterol level
- Serum LDL cholesterol level
- Triglyceride levels

Blood Lipoprotein Levels

Blood lipoprotein levels increase after consuming foods and beverages.
Levels can remain elevated for a few hours.
To obtain accurate information, individuals should fast for 12 hours before blood is drawn for a lipoprotein profile.

Classification of Fasting Blood Lipid Levels

"Desirable" (low risk) range for total cholesterol is less than 200 mg/dl.
Average total blood cholesterol level in American adults (2013-2016): 191 mg/dl.
Approximately 12% of adults have blood cholesterol levels ≥ 240 mg/dl, placing them at high risk of cardiovascular disease.
Classification of fasting blood lipid levels:
- Total cholesterol:
 - < 200 mg/dl: desirable
 - 200-239 mg/dl: borderline high
 - ≥ 240 mg/dl: high risk
- LDL cholesterol:
 - < 100 mg/dl: optimal
 - 100-129 mg/dl: near optimal
 - 130-159 mg/dl: borderline high
 - ≥ 160 mg/dl: high risk
- HDL cholesterol:
 - ≥ 60 mg/dl: high
 - 40-59 mg/dl: average
 - < 40 mg/dl: low
- Triglycerides:
 - < 150 mg/dl: normal
 - 150-199 mg/dl: borderline high
 - ≥ 200 mg/dl: high risk

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Description

Learn about Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), its forms and causes, as well as Atherosclerosis, a chronic process affecting arteries. Quiz covers coronary artery disease, carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and hypertension.