#1
What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?
Transportation of nutrients and oxygen
ExplanationTransportation of essential substances throughout the body.
#2
Which blood vessel carries deoxygenated blood from the body to the heart?
Vena cava
ExplanationLarge veins that return deoxygenated blood to the heart.
#3
What is the term for the abnormal quivering or contractions of the heart muscles, often leading to irregular heartbeats?
Arrhythmia
ExplanationIrregular heart rhythm or heartbeat.
#4
Which ion plays a crucial role in the initiation of cardiac muscle contraction?
Calcium
ExplanationEssential for the contraction of cardiac muscle fibers.
#5
What is the primary function of the sinoatrial (SA) node in the heart?
Conduction of electrical impulses
ExplanationInitiates electrical impulses that regulate the heart's rhythm.
#6
Which chamber of the heart pumps oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation?
Left ventricle
ExplanationPumps oxygen-rich blood throughout the body.
#7
What is the term for the inadequate blood supply to a tissue or organ?
Ischemia
ExplanationInadequate blood flow leading to tissue damage or dysfunction.
#8
What is the term for the condition where blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, leading to tissue damage?
Myocardial infarction
ExplanationCommonly known as a heart attack, results from obstruction of blood flow to the heart muscle.
#9
Which lipid is often referred to as 'bad cholesterol' in the context of cardiovascular health?
LDL
ExplanationLow-density lipoprotein, associated with increased risk of heart disease.
#10
Which hormone is released by the adrenal glands during the 'fight or flight' response, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure?
Adrenaline (epinephrine)
ExplanationStress hormone that prepares the body for action in response to a perceived threat.
#11
Which of the following is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease?
Hypertension
ExplanationHigh blood pressure, a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
#12
What is the mechanism of action of beta-blockers in cardiovascular treatment?
Inhibit sympathetic activity
ExplanationReduce the effects of adrenaline, slowing the heart rate and reducing blood pressure.
#13
What is the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in blood pressure regulation?
Fluid retention
ExplanationSystem that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance by retaining sodium and water.
#14
In heart failure, which class of medications is commonly used to reduce fluid retention and edema?
Diuretics
ExplanationMedications that promote the removal of excess fluid from the body.
#15
Which imaging technique is commonly used to assess the structure and function of the heart, especially in diagnosing cardiac diseases?
Echocardiography
ExplanationUses sound waves to create images of the heart's structure and function.