The cause of cor pulmonale

Written by Li Tao
Pulmonology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Cor pulmonale, also known as pulmonary heart disease, refers to the increased pulmonary vascular resistance caused by pathological changes in the bronchi, lung tissue, thorax, or pulmonary vessels, leading to pulmonary arterial hypertension and subsequent structural and functional changes in the right ventricle. This condition is clinically referred to as cor pulmonale. The causes of cor pulmonale can be divided into three main categories: The first category is diseases of the bronchi and lungs, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which accounts for approximately 80%-90% of cases. Other causes include bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis, severe pulmonary tuberculosis, interstitial pneumonia, and more. The second category involves diseases related to disorders of thoracic cage movement, such as various thoracic deformities, kyphoscoliosis, spinal tuberculosis, arthritis leading to extensive pleural adhesions, and deformities caused by thoracic plastic surgery. The third category includes pulmonary vascular diseases, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension, pulmonary thromboembolism, and other conditions leading to narrowing or blockage of pulmonary arteries, all of which can progress to cor pulmonale.

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Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
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What does heart disease feel like?

Heart disease is a very common category of diseases in our daily lives, with a wide range of heart conditions. What are the general symptoms or feelings associated with heart disease? They often manifest in the following ways: First, palpitations or arrhythmias. Patients with arrhythmias often experience symptoms of palpitations, which are quite common. Second, chest tightness and chest pain, such as in coronary heart disease or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This type of heart disease often presents with symptoms of chest tightness and chest pain. Third, symptoms of heart failure, such as exertional dyspnea or nocturnal paroxysmal dyspnea. These symptoms are often indicative of heart failure. These three major categories are the most common symptoms of heart disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to visit the cardiology department of a hospital for a formal examination.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Is congenital heart disease heart cancer?

Congenital heart disease primarily refers to the abnormal development of the heart and blood vessels during the fetal period, leading to cardiovascular malformations. It is the most common type of heart disease in children, with an incidence rate of about 6-8 per 1,000 live births. Generally, congenital heart disease refers to malformations during the development of the fetal heart. The exact causes of this condition are still not completely understood. However, actively preventing viral infectious diseases in the early stages of pregnancy and avoiding certain high-risk factors associated with the disease play a significant role in preventing congenital heart disease in children. It should be noted that congenital heart disease represents malformations in the development of the heart and is not a form of heart cancer, hence there is no terminology that describes it as such.

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Written by Li Tao
Pulmonology
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Symptoms of cor pulmonale

Cor pulmonale refers to a disease characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to pathologies of the bronchi, lung tissue, chest wall, and blood vessels of the lungs, leading to pulmonary arterial hypertension and structural and functional changes in the right ventricle. The common clinical symptoms of cor pulmonale include coughing, expectoration, shortness of breath, significant palpitations, and breathing difficulties after physical activity, reduced work capacity, and exacerbation of the above symptoms during acute infection phases. Some patients may experience chest pain and hemoptysis. The second set of symptoms relates to heart and lung function, manifesting during the decompensation phase. For instance, some patients may develop respiratory failure, and experience headaches, decreased appetite, drowsiness, significant edema in the lower extremities, and further symptoms such as arrhythmias, anorexia, abdominal distension, and nausea.

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Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
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How to prevent heart disease

As the aging society approaches, the incidence of heart disease is gradually increasing. So, how can we effectively prevent heart disease? Generally, to prevent heart disease, you can start from the following aspects: First, maintain good living habits, adhere to a low-salt, low-fat diet, eat less spicy and greasy food, and persist in exercising. Maintaining good living habits is very important. Second, control the "three highs" such as high blood lipids, high blood sugar, or high blood pressure. It is necessary to undergo standardized treatment under the guidance of a doctor to control blood lipids and blood sugar.

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Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
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Complications of heart disease

Heart disease is a very common illness in our daily lives. What are the complications of heart disease? The category of heart diseases is broad; here we will discuss some common ones, such as coronary heart disease. Patients with coronary heart disease are prone to develop heart failure, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, or atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation often leads to complications like thrombosis. For instance, a dislodged thrombus can cause a cerebral infarction, resulting in symptoms like hemiplegia, weakness in one side of the body, and speech disturbances. Additionally, certain severe myocardial diseases can lead to malignant arrhythmias, causing sudden death in patients, which is often very serious.