Chapter 7 Selected Diseases and Disorders of the Cardiovascular System
7.2e Cardiovascular Diagnostic Tests (Doppler Ultrasound, Blood Tests, and Pulse Oximetry) and Lifestyle Modifications
Zoë Soon
Cardiovascular System – Diagnostic Tests continued
Advanced Ultrasound Techniques:
- Doppler Ultrasound:
- A sophisticated form of 4D ultrasound that monitors the direction and velocity of blood flow.
- Clinical Uses:
- Detects regurgitation between the left ventricle and atrium via the mitral valve.
- Identifies valve incompetence, possibly indicating need for valve replacement.
- Assesses impact on stroke volume and cardiac output.
- Blood Tests for Cardiovascular Health:
- Triglycerides: High levels indicate risk for atherosclerotic plaque development.
- Electrolytes (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺): Critical for normal cardiac function; imbalances can lead to dysrhythmias.
- Red Blood Cells/Hemoglobin: Determines oxygen delivery capacity; deficits may impact heart and tissue function.
- White Blood Cells: Elevated counts can signal underlying infections.
- Blood Gases: Assess oxygen levels, bicarbonate, pH, and indicators like lactic acid and carboxyhemoglobin.
- Pulse Oximetry:
- Non-invasive tool that estimates blood oxygen saturation.
- Uses dual light wavelengths to evaluate oxygenated vs. carboxylated hemoglobin.
- Normal saturation around 95-98% is ideal, reflecting good oxygenation.
Lifestyle Modifications for Heart Health:
- Diet & Exercise:
- Dietary Changes:
- Adopt a healthy diet following public health guidelines.
- Reduce saturated and trans fats to lower serum lipid levels.
- Lower sodium intake to help control hypertension.
- Exercise:
- Engage in regular physical activity (minimum of 3-5 times per week).
- Benefits:
- Lowers serum lipid levels.
- Promotes vasodilation, reducing peripheral resistance and blood pressure.
- Increases high-density lipoproteins (HDL), which help clear lipids from vessels.
- Smoking Cessation:
- Quitting smoking reduces:
- Vasoconstriction—lowering blood pressure and peripheral resistance.
- Heart rate—reducing cardiac workload.
- Serum lipid levels and platelet adhesion, thus lowering the risk of clot formation.
Summary: Advanced diagnostic tools and lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in detecting, managing, and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Doppler ultrasound and blood analyses provide insights into heart function, while diet, exercise, and smoking cessation offer tangible benefits for long-term heart health and reduced disease risk.
