A&P and Microbiology | Report

Running head: A&P AND MICROBIOLOGY
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A&P and Microbiology
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A&P AND MICROBIOLOGY 2
A&P and Microbiology
The two vital diseases of the circulatory system, relating to the blood vessels, are the
coronary artery disease and hypertension. Coronary artery disease is a condition involving the
narrowing of the coronary arteries. Often, Coronary artery disease is caused by atherosclerosis,
which consists of the accumulation of fatty deposits and cholesterol on the internal lining of the
arterial wall. Such deposits restrict the flow of blood to the heart muscles through physical
clogging of the arteries, hence causing abnormality in arterial function. Coronary artery disease
is associated with plenty of risk factors. Male gender is at higher risk compared to women during
the early stages of life. However, the risk for men is equal to the risk for women begging at age
70. Also, the coronary artery is more prominent in adult age. The aorta becomes thicker as an
individual age hence promoting the narrowing of the internal pathway (Medline plus, 2018).
Also, family history plays a significant role. Diagnosis of a family member, especially bellow
age 50, increases the likelihood of acquiring coronary artery disease. Some of the modifiable risk
factors include smoking, physical inactivity, uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension and high blood
cholesterol. The primary symptom of coronary artery disease is angina. Angina encompasses
chest pain, pressure, heaviness, tightness, fullness, squeezing, and numb sensation (Healthline,
2019). Other symptoms of coronary artery disease include sweating, fast heart rate, anxiety,
dizziness, indigestion, vomiting, and fatigue. Diagnosis of coronary artery disease is made by
contacting an echocardiogram test. Most specifically, an intravascular ultrasound is used. The
sound is performed during cardiac catheterization. The catheter is used to thread a transducer
into the heart blood vessels (WebMD, 2018). The sound will then provide detailed information
regarding the blockages within the blood vessels. Apart from lifestyle changes like stress
reduction, quit smoking, weight reduction, and regular exercise, coronary artery disease can be