Tag: blood vessel
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What is a Vasovagal Syncope response?
Vasovagal syncope, also known as neurocardiogenic syncope or reflex syncope, is the most common cause of fainting, accounting for approximately 50% of all syncopal episodes. It occurs when there is a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, causing a temporary loss of consciousness. This condition is typically benign and not associated with any…
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Sympathetic vs Parasympathetic Nervous System in Paramedicine
The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are two branches of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration and digestion. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the “fight or flight” response, while the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the “rest and digest” response. Sympathetic Nervous…
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Haematoma vs Contusion: A Detailed Comparison
A haematoma is a localised collection of blood outside blood vessels, typically caused by injury. On the other hand, a contusion, often referred to as a bruise, occurs when small blood vessels under the skin break due to external force. Haematomas often exhibit localised swelling and skin discolouration, while contusions are recognisable by skin discolouration.…
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Pallor vs Cyanosis comparison
Pallor refers to an unhealthy pale appearance of the skin, whereas cyanosis refers to a bluish discolouration of the skin due to lack of oxygen in the blood. Pallor Pallor is a medical term that refers to an abnormally pale appearance of the skin and mucous membranes. The pathophysiology of pallor can be related to…
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Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, resulting in damage to brain cells. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blocked blood vessel, and hemorrhagic stroke, which is caused by bleeding in the brain. The symptoms of a…
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Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), is also known as a “mini-stroke.” It occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is briefly interrupted, usually by a blood clot. TIAs are caused by temporary blockages in the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. Symptoms of a TIA are similar to those…
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Hydrostatic vs Plasma Oncotic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure and plasma oncotic pressure are both related to the flow of fluid in and out of blood vessels, but they work in different ways and have different functions. Hydrostatic Pressure Hydrostatic pressure refers to the force exerted by a fluid (in this case, blood) against the walls of a container (in this case,…
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Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to the buildup of plaque. Plaque is a mixture of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances in the blood that can accumulate on the inner walls of the arteries. Over time, the plaque can narrow the arteries and reduce the flow of…
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Angina
Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is a common symptom of coronary artery disease, which is a condition in which the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrow or blocked due to the buildup of…