Question

Paul is a 57 year old male with a history of myocardial infarction. He underwent cardiac bypass surgery three years ago and recently had been noticing shortness of breath and swelling of his feet and ankles. He had been following a daily exercise regimen, walking one mile a day. Paul is overweight, but claims to eat a healthy diet and walks regularly He awoke with breathlessness during the last couple of nights. His blood pressure was 110/52, and his pulse was 130 and irregular. His temperature was normal. Paul was found by Dr. Abbas to be very anxious but exhibited normal cognitive function. A chest x-ray revealed cardiomegaly (an enlarged heart) and pulmonary edema. Electrocardiogram testing revealed that Paul has a left bundle branch block. The doctor has suggested that Paul consults with his cardiologist, but has recommended several treatment options including drugs that will increase the contractility of the heart, reduce peripheral vascular resistance, and eliminate fluid retention.

What are Paul's factors for cardiac disease and how might Paul's heart valves be related to his symptoms?

Answer 1

Answer: The factors for the cardiac disease includes the history of myocardial infarction, hypertension, obesity etc. causes increase risk of the cardiovascular disease.

The Paul's heart valves is related to his symptoms as when there is abnormalities in the valves, these valves can't close properly which causes blood leakage which goes backward that is in the heart.