4 b] Discuss the following i] reasons for blockages of blood vessels ii] Defibrillators
Reasons for Blockages of Blood Vessels:-
The blockages in blood vessels can have serious health consequences, such as heart attacks and stroke. Blockages in blood vessels, also known as arterial blockages or atherosclerosis, can occur for several reasons
- High cholesterol levels: Excessive amounts of cholesterol in the blood lead to the formation of plaque in the blood vessels, which can narrow or block them.
- High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels, leading to the formation of plaque and blockages.
- Smoking: Smoking can damage the inner walls of blood vessels and promote the buildup of plaque, leading to blockages.
- Diabetes: People with uncontrolled diabetes are at a higher risk of developing blockages in their blood vessels, due to damage to the blood vessels from high levels of glucose.
- Age: As people age, the blood vessels can become stiff, increasing the risk of blockages.
- Genetics: Some people may be predisposed to developing blockages in their blood vessels due to genetic factors.
- Poor diet: A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can increase the risk of developing blockages in the blood vessels.
Defibrillators:-
Defibrillators work by delivering a controlled electric shock to the heart. The shock interrupts the electrical activity of the heart during ventricular fibrillation, allowing the heart’s natural pacemaker to reestablish a normal rhythm.
Types of Defibrillators:
- Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs): Portable devices designed by non-medical personnel, such as first responders. AEDs analyze the heart rhythm and provide voice prompts to guide the rescuer through defibrillation.
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs): Surgically implanted devices defibrillations for patients at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest due to underlying heart conditions. ICDs continuously monitor the heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock when an abnormal rhythm is detected.
- Transvenous Defibrillators: Implanted in a patient’s chest, connected to the heart through lead wires threaded into the blood vessels. These are used in patients who need long-term defibrillation support.
Defibrillators are safe to use, as they will not deliver a shock unless they detect a shockable rhythm (VF or pulseless VT). AEDs are designed to be user-friendly and can be used by individuals with minimal or no training. A quick application of defibrillation is crucial for the best chances of survival in cardiac arrest cases.
