What is transcutaneous cardiac pacing? Transcutaneous cardiac pacing (TCP) temporarily paces a patient’s heart during an emergency and stabilizes them. Transcutaneous cardiac pacing (TCP) is noninvasive and temporary means of pacing a patient’s heart during an emergency and stabilizing them until a better intervention is achieved. TCP works as an artificial pacemaker by delivering repetitive...
What is the difference between thrombus and embolism? Thrombosis and embolisms are blockages in the blood vessels that require immediate medical treatment. A thrombus occurs in the legs, pelvis, arms or heart while an embolism occurs in the lungs. Thrombosis and embolism are obstructions that form in your vascular system and require immediate medical attention....
Illustration of the brain showing the two hemispheres, cerebellum and brains stem.Source: MedicineNet Facts you should know about fainting (syncope) Being unconscious is not normal. If you or someone else has fainted, call 911 or go to your nearest Urgent Care. Symptoms of fainting include: Nausea Dizziness Lightheadedness Vision problems, for example, seeing spots or...
What is an electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG)? An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) measures the heart’s electrical activity. The electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a noninvasive test that is used to reflect underlying heart conditions by measuring the electrical activity of the heart. By positioning leads (electrical sensing devices) on the body in standardized locations, health care...
Facts you should know about DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and birth control pills Share Your Story Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the most common type of venous thromboembolism (VTE), and it refers to blood clots that form in the deep veins of the thigh, lower leg, pelvis, or arm. Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) can...
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during pregnancy definitions and facts Share Your Story During pregnancy, factors that increase the risk of developing DVT include varicose veins, diabetes multiple gestations, and more. The most common type of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which refers to blood clots in the deep veins of the leg,...
Endocarditis facts Endocarditis is an inflammation of the heart valves caused by bacteria. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, weakness, aching joints and muscles, night sweats, and others. Endocarditis is an inflammation of the valves of the heart. Endocarditis is often caused by the growth of bacteria on one of the heart valves, leading to a...
What are blood clots? What is a thrombus? A thrombus is a blood clot that occurs in and occludes a vein while a blood clot forms within an artery or vein and it can break off and travel to the heart or lungs, causing a medical emergency. A thrombus is a blood clot that occurs...
A blood pressure reading of 120 over 60 is an example of isolated diastolic hypotension Most people are concerned about high blood pressure (hypertension) because it’s a known risk factor for heart disease. However, low blood pressure (hypotension) is also a problem, especially if it causes symptoms. In a blood pressure reading, the number on...
What is a coronary angiogram? An angiogram is an X-ray image of blood vessels after they are filled with a contrast material. An angiogram of the heart, a coronary angiogram, is the “gold standard” for the evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD). A coronary angiogram can be used to identify the exact location and severity...