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 Zhang Yue Mei
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What foods should people with heart disease eat?

Patients with heart disease should adopt a diet that is low in fat, salt, and oil in their daily lives, and they should try to eat more fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamins, trace elements, and dietary fiber. They can frequently eat foods such as sea cucumber, eggs, milk, beef tendon, lean meat, rabbit meat, belt fish, yellow croaker, shrimp, and others that contain a good amount of high-quality protein needed by the human body, and have lower cholesterol. Continuous consumption over time can enhance the body's immunity and disease resistance.

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Written by Li Hai Wen
Cardiology
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How to relieve vomiting caused by heart disease?

Treatment for vomiting caused by heart disease must depend on its cause. First, if caused by heart failure, as the symptoms of heart failure worsen, including right-sided heart failure, patients may experience nausea, vomiting, and bloating after eating. The key in these cases is to correct heart failure, perhaps with intravenous diuretic medications or the newer diuretic drug tolvaptan, which can alleviate symptoms of vomiting caused by heart failure. Secondly, digoxin toxicity can cause vomiting if patients with heart failure are taking too much or have been on digoxin for a prolonged period. The primary action in these instances is to discontinue the digoxin medication promptly. Thirdly, if associated with gastritis, treatment would involve medications to stop vomiting and oral omeprazole to protect the stomach lining. (Medications should be taken under medical supervision.)

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Written by Zhang Yue Mei
Cardiology
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What should be noted for rheumatic heart disease?

Rheumatic heart disease is caused by valvular pathology and often affects heart function. It is important to rest regularly, avoid overexertion, wear more clothing to prevent colds, and avoid exposure to cold winds. Each occurrence of a cold can exacerbate rheumatic heart disease. Dietary attention should focus on easily digestible, high-nutrient foods. Avoid consuming spicy and greasy foods, as they can lead to indigestion and gastrointestinal irritation, which can worsen symptoms of heart disease and increase the cardiac burden, bringing about adverse factors for the patient.

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Written by Xie Zhi Hong
Cardiology
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Which place is the best for a heart disease massage?

Premature cardiac contractions can occur in normal individuals. For younger people, fewer than 3 contractions per minute generally poses no issue, whereas for older individuals, fewer than 5 per minute is considered normal. However, it is recommended to conduct a 24-hour Holter monitor test. If this test shows more than 10,000 occurrences in 24 hours, it is advisable to consult a specialist to determine if medication or hospital treatment, such as radiofrequency ablation, is needed. Additionally, it is crucial to investigate the causes of premature cardiac contractions. If serious diseases are ruled out, it may be helpful to massage corresponding acupoints. Generally, massaging acupoints like the Neiguan and Hegu, which are associated with the kidney and heart meridians, is suggested. Massage of the Fuxi acupoint is also recommended; located at the front of the thigh, it is easier to massage when seated with the knee bent at a 90-degree angle.

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Written by Xie Zhi Hong
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Is hyperthyroid heart disease dangerous?

Hyperthyroidism can repeatedly cause an increase in heart rate and metabolism, which is quite active, causing a long-term overload of heart function, leading to the formation of hyperthyroid heart disease, a chronic pathological change process. In the middle and early stages, it generally does not pose a life-threatening risk, only manifesting symptoms such as palpitations, tightness after activity, breathlessness, or chest tightness, which can improve with rest. However, if hyperthyroidism is not cured for a long time, or if hyperthyroid heart disease is not treated in time, it can lead to severe heart failure. If there is a severe decline in heart pump function, causing the ejection fraction to be below 30%, it can easily cause sudden pump failure or severe arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, posing a life-threatening risk to the patient.