Cardiovascular Disorders

Heart Failure

Heart failure is the heart's inability to pump effectively. Left-sided presents with pulmonary congestion; right-sided with peripheral edema. Manage with fluid restriction, daily weights, and diuretics.

Hypertension

Hypertension is persistently elevated blood pressure. Lifestyle modification and antihypertensives reduce cardiovascular, renal, and cerebrovascular risk.

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease results from atherosclerotic narrowing of coronary arteries, reducing myocardial blood flow. Stable angina occurs with exertion; unstable angina and MI occur at rest or progress.

Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms arising from disrupted electrical conduction. They range from benign premature beats to life-threatening ventricular fibrillation requiring immediate intervention.

Aortic Aneurysm & Dissection

Aortic aneurysm is dilation of the aortic wall; dissection is a tear in the intima. Monitor for tearing chest/back pain, pulse deficits, and hypotension. Surgical emergency.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

PVD reduces blood flow to extremities. Intermittent claudication, rest pain, and poor pulses. Manage with exercise, smoking cessation, and antiplatelet therapy.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

DVT forms in deep veins, usually legs. Signs: unilateral swelling, warmth, tenderness. Anticoagulation prevents PE. Homan's sign is unreliable.

Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock: heart fails to pump adequately. Hypotension, cool/clammy skin, oliguria, altered mental status. Treat with inotropes, IABP, and revascularization.