Cardiac Conditions

TL;DR

Various heart-related health issues needing medical attention and management.

What are Cardiac Conditions?

Cardiac conditions encompass a variety of ailments related to the heart, with symptoms and treatments varying widely.

Chest pain, a common symptom, can be challenging to assess as it may indicate several conditions. Cardiac pain typically manifests in the centre of the chest or behind the breastbone, often described as squeezing, crushing, or heavy. It may radiate to the shoulders, neck, jaw, or arms.

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an abrupt loss of heart function due to an electrical malfunction, causing the heart to stop beating effectively. This is distinct from a heart attack, which involves a blockage in the arteries supplying the heart muscle, leading to tissue damage. Quick action is vital in treating SCA, often involving defibrillation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Heart attacks, also known as myocardial infarctions, occur when a coronary artery is blocked, reducing blood flow and oxygen to part of the heart muscle. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include chest pain, sweating, rapid or irregular pulse, and difficulty breathing.

Angina, a condition characterized by chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart, presents similarly but is usually relieved by rest or medication.

Heart failure, another serious cardiac condition, occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to fluid build-up in the lungs and other parts of the body. Signs include breathlessness, swelling of the extremities, and a 'bubbly' breath sound.

Immediate care involves calling emergency services, providing reassurance, and assisting the casualty to take prescribed medications.

Recognizing Cardiac Conditions

• Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often described as pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing during rest or physical activity.
• Sweating: Unexplained cold sweat.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness even with minimal activity.
• Palpitations: Irregular or rapid heartbeats.

Takeaway to remember

Cardiac conditions encompass a range of diseases and disorders affecting the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

Reference

• First Aid eBook