2.7k views
5 votes
A brief description of the CHD you have chosen. Please be sure

to include a brief overview of the anatomy affected.

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is caused by the build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries which supply blood to the heart muscle, leading to reduced blood flow and potentially resulting in chest pain, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Overview

Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease (CHD), is a condition characterized by impaired blood flow in the coronary arteries of the heart. The primary cause of CAD is atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of plaque within the arteries. This plaque accumulation leads to narrowing and can eventually block the arteries, affecting the heart's ability to receive sufficient oxygen-rich blood.

Anatomy Affected by CAD

The human heart is divided into four chambers: the right atrium and ventricle, and the left atrium and ventricle. Blood flows through these chambers in a coordinated fashion, fueled by oxygen which is picked up during pulmonary circulation. The coronary arteries are responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle itself. In CAD, these arteries become narrowed due to plaque build-up, thereby compromising the heart's oxygen supply.

Impact of CAD on Heart Function

As a result of reduced blood flow from CAD, the heart muscle can become deprived of oxygen, leading to chest pain or angina, and in severe cases, a myocardial infarction, commonly called a heart attack. The heart, made up of a specialized type of muscle called cardiac muscle, relies on this oxygen to perform its function as a pump, circulating blood throughout the body. When the supply is reduced or cut off, it endangers the heart's ability to maintain effective systemic and pulmonary circulation.

User Sebpardo
by
7.7k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.