Our heart is actually a system of two side-by-side pumps that circulate blood through two parallel loops of circulation. The right side of the heart pumps blood from the veins of the rest of the body to the lungs where it absorbs oxygen and eliminates carbon dioxide, and then returns to the heart.
This oxygen rich blood is then distributed to the rest of the body by the left side of the heart and the other loop.
Definitions:
Hypertension generally refers to elevated pressure in the loop serviced by the left side of the heart and is measured with a blood pressure cuff on our arm.
Pulmonary hypertension refers to increased pressure in the other loop of circulation and must be measured by other means (sensors within the heart or nearby vessels.)
Fen phen is the term used to describe the combination of two drugs, fenfluramine and phentermine.
The use of fen phen has been linked to two significant abnormalities, damage to heart valves (valvular heart disease) and PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension).
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH), a disease that has been associated with the use of fen phen, involves thickening and constriction of the capillaries in the lungs.
Capillaries are the tiniest blood vessels that exist between arteries (the vessels that cary blood away from the heart to the body and lungs) and veins (the vessels that return blood from the body or lungs to the heart).
Capillary membranes (the walls of capillaries) are where nutrients enter our cells and where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.
This membrane becomes thickened and the tiny vessels (capillaries) constricted (tightened) as a consequence of exposure to fen phen. This causes an impaired exchange of gases and results in less than adequate supplies of oxygen to our cells and the sensation of difficult breathing. There is no cure for the damage to this membrane or the tiny blood vessels caused by fen phen.
The thickening and constriction seen with PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension) also creates added resistance to blood flow in the lungs and hypertension (elevated pressure) in this loop of circulation. This is referred to as Pulmonary Hypertension.
Symptoms:
The primary symptoms of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH) are shortness of breath and dizziness. The increased pressure and resistance may cause stress on the heart and lead to enlargement of the heart and eventually an accumulation (build up) of fluid in the liver and other tissues, such as the legs. This is referred to as edema.
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH) refers to Pulmonary Hypertension that occurs in the absence of underlying heart or lung disease, or other illnesses.
Diagnosis:
This disorder, PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension), can be diagnoses after abnormalities are found using a chest x-ray, high-resolution CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography) scanning, pulmonary function tests and an echocardiogram. An angiogram (right heart catheterization) confirms the diagnosis.
2008年3月15日星期六
Stunning Paua Shell - What Is It About?
In New Zealand abalone is called paua in the Maori language. It is difficult to harvest paua and the rights can only be arranged under legal Maori customary rights. The daily recreational ration is 10 paua per diver with a minimum shell length of 125 mm. The Ministry of Fisheries says that in the years of 2004 and 2005 approximately 1,000 tons of paua will be poached with about three fourths of that undersized.
New Zealands polished paua shells are common souvenirs because of their gorgeous blue, purple, gold and green hues. If you transport unprocessed abalone shells out of New Zealand you are breaking the law.
The amazing color of paua shells are completely natural are polished to gain maximum luster to show the rightful colors on the shell.
Paua is a certain species of abalone that is only found around New Zealand. Locals only utilize the natural paua that has washed up on the beach. They dont use fake color enhancers, plastic resin coatings, or dyes like some manufacturers do who sometimes harvest thin paua shells.
There are three different species of Paua found in New Zealand counting silver paua- Haliotis australis, Paua- Haliotis iris, and Virgin Paua-Haliotis virginea. Paua is a Maori name that was given to a small group of mono-valve mollusks found in their coastal waters.
Paua are found in the shallow coastal water along rocky shorelines in depths of about one to fifteen m. They feed on adjacent seaweed and can survive the strong tidal surges because they can cling to the rocks with their muscular foot.
The paua is actually ionic in New Zealand and its black muscular foot is considered a delicacy while its shell is used in jewelry and as keep sakes because it is one of the worlds most beautiful shells.
New Zealands polished paua shells are common souvenirs because of their gorgeous blue, purple, gold and green hues. If you transport unprocessed abalone shells out of New Zealand you are breaking the law.
The amazing color of paua shells are completely natural are polished to gain maximum luster to show the rightful colors on the shell.
Paua is a certain species of abalone that is only found around New Zealand. Locals only utilize the natural paua that has washed up on the beach. They dont use fake color enhancers, plastic resin coatings, or dyes like some manufacturers do who sometimes harvest thin paua shells.
There are three different species of Paua found in New Zealand counting silver paua- Haliotis australis, Paua- Haliotis iris, and Virgin Paua-Haliotis virginea. Paua is a Maori name that was given to a small group of mono-valve mollusks found in their coastal waters.
Paua are found in the shallow coastal water along rocky shorelines in depths of about one to fifteen m. They feed on adjacent seaweed and can survive the strong tidal surges because they can cling to the rocks with their muscular foot.
The paua is actually ionic in New Zealand and its black muscular foot is considered a delicacy while its shell is used in jewelry and as keep sakes because it is one of the worlds most beautiful shells.
2008年3月5日星期三
Cappuccinos the Right Way!
Detoxification is a process and can be a gentle cleansing or
a more rigorous therapy, where many foods are completely
avoided over a long period of time.
The detoxifying program you would choose would depend for the
most part on the condition of your elimination system and your
ove-rall health.
Most places that serve cappuccinos in the United States have not trained their baristas in the art of properly frothing milk. The foam that they create is usually a dry, tasteless, large celled collection of bubbles that sit on top of the espresso like a meringue.
With a little care, you can create steamed milk that is velvety smooth like the texture of wet shaving cream. The bubbles will be so small that you can barely see them! This is the way its supposed to be, because this way, it will blend with the espresso, creating a harmony of the flavors instead of a dry, tasteless cap floating on top. Lets Begin.
First off, its important to start with cold milk thats just out of the fridge. Pour the milk into the steaming pitcher until it is just about 1/3 of the way full. Milk will double to triple in volume after the frothing process. A stainless steel pitcher works best. It will dissipate some of the heat, allowing more time to infuse air into the milk before the milk gets too hot.
Also use a thermometer to get the milk to the correct temperature of 145 degrees. There are many thermometers made for this purpose that will clip onto the side of the pitcher for convenience.
The Technique:
Purge the steam wand onto a damp towel by releasing the valve for a few seconds. Be very careful not to burn yourself, the steam will be extremely hot. This purging will get all of the water out so you dont get it in your milk.
Next, submerge the wand into the milk and quickly turn the steam on full power. Avoid letting the tip of the wand come out of the milk. This will cause splattering and create large, tasteless bubbles.
There are many other diet's and detox therapies, these are just a few common methods. Regular body detoxification is a good preventative action and promotes a healthier present and future!
Adjust the wand so that it is pointing off center in order to get the milk to flowing in a rapid, circular motion. Maintaining this fast, circulating vortex is vital.
Then, slowly lower the pitcher until the tip of the wand is just below the surface of the milk (keeping the circulation going). When you can hear a hissing noise, similar to bacon frying, you have reached the perfect position for the wand to inject air into the milk.
Try to maintain this hissing noise while keeping the milk rotating. You will have to slowly lower the pitcher as the milk volume rises in order to keep the wand tip just under the surface.
By keeping the milk flowing in a rapid circle, any large bubbles that are accidentally created will be rolled into the milk and eliminated. Continue steaming until the milk reaches 145 degrees. Be careful not to get the milk too hot, it will scald giving it a bad taste.
Thats pretty much it! If you have a few large bubbles, you can try to get rid of them by tapping the bottom of the pitcher lightly on the counter. Serve immediately and enjoy some of the silkiest frothed milk you have ever tasted!
One more thing, now that you know how to properly steam the milk, notice how few coffee houses have baristas that take care in this process. Very few use thermometers and end up scalding the milk, or leaving it too cold.
Most will just leave the pitcher sitting there while the wand blows into the milk. Some will use an up and down motion, but this does absolutely nothing for creating tiny, velvety bubbles. Its the rolling action of the milk thats needed.
If you find a barista that shows this skill of frothing milk, then stay with him! Hes been trained and probably takes pride in what he does.
What the body doesn't use or can't pass, it stores. One example is the accumulation of fat. These are excesses in intake which aren't burned off and the body is unable to cope with therefore it stores in what can eventually become an obvious and undesirable way.
a more rigorous therapy, where many foods are completely
avoided over a long period of time.
The detoxifying program you would choose would depend for the
most part on the condition of your elimination system and your
ove-rall health.
Most places that serve cappuccinos in the United States have not trained their baristas in the art of properly frothing milk. The foam that they create is usually a dry, tasteless, large celled collection of bubbles that sit on top of the espresso like a meringue.
With a little care, you can create steamed milk that is velvety smooth like the texture of wet shaving cream. The bubbles will be so small that you can barely see them! This is the way its supposed to be, because this way, it will blend with the espresso, creating a harmony of the flavors instead of a dry, tasteless cap floating on top. Lets Begin.
First off, its important to start with cold milk thats just out of the fridge. Pour the milk into the steaming pitcher until it is just about 1/3 of the way full. Milk will double to triple in volume after the frothing process. A stainless steel pitcher works best. It will dissipate some of the heat, allowing more time to infuse air into the milk before the milk gets too hot.
Also use a thermometer to get the milk to the correct temperature of 145 degrees. There are many thermometers made for this purpose that will clip onto the side of the pitcher for convenience.
The Technique:
Purge the steam wand onto a damp towel by releasing the valve for a few seconds. Be very careful not to burn yourself, the steam will be extremely hot. This purging will get all of the water out so you dont get it in your milk.
Next, submerge the wand into the milk and quickly turn the steam on full power. Avoid letting the tip of the wand come out of the milk. This will cause splattering and create large, tasteless bubbles.
There are many other diet's and detox therapies, these are just a few common methods. Regular body detoxification is a good preventative action and promotes a healthier present and future!
Adjust the wand so that it is pointing off center in order to get the milk to flowing in a rapid, circular motion. Maintaining this fast, circulating vortex is vital.
Then, slowly lower the pitcher until the tip of the wand is just below the surface of the milk (keeping the circulation going). When you can hear a hissing noise, similar to bacon frying, you have reached the perfect position for the wand to inject air into the milk.
Try to maintain this hissing noise while keeping the milk rotating. You will have to slowly lower the pitcher as the milk volume rises in order to keep the wand tip just under the surface.
By keeping the milk flowing in a rapid circle, any large bubbles that are accidentally created will be rolled into the milk and eliminated. Continue steaming until the milk reaches 145 degrees. Be careful not to get the milk too hot, it will scald giving it a bad taste.
Thats pretty much it! If you have a few large bubbles, you can try to get rid of them by tapping the bottom of the pitcher lightly on the counter. Serve immediately and enjoy some of the silkiest frothed milk you have ever tasted!
One more thing, now that you know how to properly steam the milk, notice how few coffee houses have baristas that take care in this process. Very few use thermometers and end up scalding the milk, or leaving it too cold.
Most will just leave the pitcher sitting there while the wand blows into the milk. Some will use an up and down motion, but this does absolutely nothing for creating tiny, velvety bubbles. Its the rolling action of the milk thats needed.
If you find a barista that shows this skill of frothing milk, then stay with him! Hes been trained and probably takes pride in what he does.
What the body doesn't use or can't pass, it stores. One example is the accumulation of fat. These are excesses in intake which aren't burned off and the body is unable to cope with therefore it stores in what can eventually become an obvious and undesirable way.
Handy Features to Look for in an Emergency Residential Generator
From the dizzying array of choices one is presented with when beginning a search for the proper emergency residential generator to suit your needs. However, if one is new to the practice of managing their electrical power generation, the choices might not even make sense. There are few features that can make the use of a standby generator far more safe, efficient and pleasant. And since they all cost money, it's good to have a feel for just how important each of these features is to you.
Though it seems like a very simple thing, the inclusion of wheels on the portable generator chassis can save you from a life-long injury. Even relatively small farm or residential generators can weigh more than most people should or could lift, unassisted. This might be the least expensive upgrade you can look for in a system, but it could ultimately save you more money in any other given the high cost of health care.
Another simple adaptation is a large fuel tank. Many small, portable generators have inadequate tanks some as small as 5 or 10 gallons. Safe filling procedures require at least a few minutes to cool off before they can be safely filled, since the surfaces of residential-sized generators often get hot enough to actually ignite petroleum vapours. Obviously, that would be a problem.
Because of this gap in run time, it's nice to not have to fill them every few hours. A 30 gallon tank means the average standby generator only needs to be filled every day or so. Many petrol tanks are 300-600 gallons. If you have a heating system that uses the same fuel, you could combine the storage facilities, and it's something to consider when considering purchasing a diesel or gasoline generator versus LP/propane generators.
This does, of course, presuppose you have 30 gallons of fuel lying about. If you don't, you should. It is never a bad idea to have fuel in storage, on site, though it does no good for anything other than as a pyro-accelerant or industrial solvent if not properly stored for more than 30 days. After a month, any fuel should be considered suspect unless preservation methods have been employed.
As such, your fuel shoud be well-contained: not liable to be blown up by anything or evaporate into varnish. Also, it should be protected from getting water (or, more precisely, water vapour) in it. Unless you're storing your fuel in a desert cave, there will be temperature fluctuations that can cause water to condense on the sides of the tank and cause poor performance in this "distilled" state.
Because backup or standby generators are often quite noisy, most urban and suburban areas have laws and ordinances that ban the use of generators. However, in the case of portable generators in an emergency, your neighbours aren't likely to mind if you're generous with charging batteries for flash lights and otherwise sharing your power when everyone is out.
Regardless, residential generators can be found that are not nearly as loud as many of the less expensive types by looking for some characteristic engine types and styles. Often times noise is the result of something that is causing friction or some other type of loss in the system, so quiet engines are often more fuel efficient, though sometimes a bit choked.
Overhead valve type residential generators also have the advantage of being relatively quiet to operate. Whether diesel, gasoline or propane / LP, generator designs that include this more direct type of valve action are more reliable. They are more resistant to friction damage and rarely "throw a rod" or suffer from nearly the same incidence of poor valve fit than older types of internal combustion residential generators.
Automatic idle control keeps the engine from running at top speed when it's not necessary. This graduated type of throttling automatically ratchets the available residential generator power down while allowing the You can also expect relatively quiet operation during these low power events, though the performance when they're pushed to maximum is no quieter than a similarly equipped residential generator without an automatic idle control.
Of course, the main advantage of idle control is the greater fuel economy it affords. This savings can be quite dramatic in the case of a well designed residential generator system with enough headroom to handle just about any contingency.
Another very handy feature is an automatic switch that shuts down any standby generator when the level of engine oil is too low to ensure proper lubrication. Such a calamity is far more likely to happen with a residential generator (as opposed to the family automobile) since you're not right next to it to hear when odd noises start. An engine that is not observed and maintained can seize up and cause severe engine damage.
Many of manufacturers employ such features in their designs, including most of the big names such as Winco, Gillette and Parmac. Once you've decided how much power and what the requirements of your site are, the rest is what impacts how you'll actually use the device. If you'll only be using a standby generator once every 20 years, some minor inconveniences are just that whereas some are extremely burdensome. Knowing what your options are will allow you to make the best choice to avoid trouble later.
Though it seems like a very simple thing, the inclusion of wheels on the portable generator chassis can save you from a life-long injury. Even relatively small farm or residential generators can weigh more than most people should or could lift, unassisted. This might be the least expensive upgrade you can look for in a system, but it could ultimately save you more money in any other given the high cost of health care.
Another simple adaptation is a large fuel tank. Many small, portable generators have inadequate tanks some as small as 5 or 10 gallons. Safe filling procedures require at least a few minutes to cool off before they can be safely filled, since the surfaces of residential-sized generators often get hot enough to actually ignite petroleum vapours. Obviously, that would be a problem.
Because of this gap in run time, it's nice to not have to fill them every few hours. A 30 gallon tank means the average standby generator only needs to be filled every day or so. Many petrol tanks are 300-600 gallons. If you have a heating system that uses the same fuel, you could combine the storage facilities, and it's something to consider when considering purchasing a diesel or gasoline generator versus LP/propane generators.
This does, of course, presuppose you have 30 gallons of fuel lying about. If you don't, you should. It is never a bad idea to have fuel in storage, on site, though it does no good for anything other than as a pyro-accelerant or industrial solvent if not properly stored for more than 30 days. After a month, any fuel should be considered suspect unless preservation methods have been employed.
As such, your fuel shoud be well-contained: not liable to be blown up by anything or evaporate into varnish. Also, it should be protected from getting water (or, more precisely, water vapour) in it. Unless you're storing your fuel in a desert cave, there will be temperature fluctuations that can cause water to condense on the sides of the tank and cause poor performance in this "distilled" state.
Because backup or standby generators are often quite noisy, most urban and suburban areas have laws and ordinances that ban the use of generators. However, in the case of portable generators in an emergency, your neighbours aren't likely to mind if you're generous with charging batteries for flash lights and otherwise sharing your power when everyone is out.
Regardless, residential generators can be found that are not nearly as loud as many of the less expensive types by looking for some characteristic engine types and styles. Often times noise is the result of something that is causing friction or some other type of loss in the system, so quiet engines are often more fuel efficient, though sometimes a bit choked.
Overhead valve type residential generators also have the advantage of being relatively quiet to operate. Whether diesel, gasoline or propane / LP, generator designs that include this more direct type of valve action are more reliable. They are more resistant to friction damage and rarely "throw a rod" or suffer from nearly the same incidence of poor valve fit than older types of internal combustion residential generators.
Automatic idle control keeps the engine from running at top speed when it's not necessary. This graduated type of throttling automatically ratchets the available residential generator power down while allowing the You can also expect relatively quiet operation during these low power events, though the performance when they're pushed to maximum is no quieter than a similarly equipped residential generator without an automatic idle control.
Of course, the main advantage of idle control is the greater fuel economy it affords. This savings can be quite dramatic in the case of a well designed residential generator system with enough headroom to handle just about any contingency.
Another very handy feature is an automatic switch that shuts down any standby generator when the level of engine oil is too low to ensure proper lubrication. Such a calamity is far more likely to happen with a residential generator (as opposed to the family automobile) since you're not right next to it to hear when odd noises start. An engine that is not observed and maintained can seize up and cause severe engine damage.
Many of manufacturers employ such features in their designs, including most of the big names such as Winco, Gillette and Parmac. Once you've decided how much power and what the requirements of your site are, the rest is what impacts how you'll actually use the device. If you'll only be using a standby generator once every 20 years, some minor inconveniences are just that whereas some are extremely burdensome. Knowing what your options are will allow you to make the best choice to avoid trouble later.
2007 Infiniti G35 Sport Tops Inside Lines Sport Sedans
Edmunds.coms online car magazine Inside Line has recently announced that the 2007 Infiniti G35 Sport has won the latest comparison test of sport sedans.
There were five sport sedans that the editorial team of Inside Line has compared and these are as follows:
2007 BMW 335i (MSRP $46,650 and Edmunds.com True Market Value (TMV) of $44,290) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 300-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission;
2008 Cadillac CTS (MSRP $44,715 and TMV of $44,159) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 304-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission;
2007 Infiniti G35 Sport (estimate $36,800 and TMV of $34,928) -- equipped with high quality Nissan floor mats, a six-cylinder, 306-horsepower engine and five-speed automatic transmission;
2008 Lexus IS350 (MSRP $47,815 and TMV of $47,651) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 306-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission; and
2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport (MSRP $41,935 and TMV of $41,841) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 268-horsepower engine and seven-speed automatic transmission
According to Inside Line Senior Road Test Editor Josh Jacquot their chosen five sedans are excellent cars and its simply hard to find a reason not to buy any of them. However, the Infiniti G35 Sport from among the five chosen sport sedans possess an engaging driving character, high feature content, and above all an affordable price which adds up to its appeal.
The 2007 BMW 335i ranks second and was highly praised for performance and comfort. Meanwhile, the 2008 Cadillac CTS was in third place and was chosen for its superior interior design and quality. Toyotas 2008 Lexus IS350 came in fourth place and was included for its performance. In the fifth place is the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 which the editors which the editors has praised for its high-end audio and navigation system.
Vehicle Rankings from 2007-2008 Sport Sedan Comparison Test
1. 2007 Infiniti G35 Sport
2. 2007 BMW 335i
3. 2008 Cadillac CTS
4. 2008 Lexus IS350
5. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350
Here are some of the specs of the 2007 Infiniti G35 Sport just for you to have an idea of why it won the comparison test conducted by Inside Line on sports sedans:
Performance & Efficiency
3,498 cc 3.5 liters V 6 front engine with 95.5 mm bore, 81.4 mm stroke, 10.6 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder VQ35
Premium unleaded fuel 91
Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 26 and EPA city (mpg): 19
Multi-point injection fuel system
20 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank
Power: 228 kW , 306 HP SAE @ 6,800 rpm; 268 ft lb , 363 Nm @ 5,200 rpm
Handling, Ride & Braking
Four-wheel ABS
Brake assist system
Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs
Electronic brake distribution
Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management
Immobilizer
Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
Stability control
Wishbone front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , multi-link rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs
Exterior & Aerodynamics
Body color front and rear bumpers
Chrome/bright trim around side windows
Driver and passenger power partial-painted door mirrors
External dimensions: overall length (inches): 187, overall width (inches): 69.8, overall height (inches): 57.2, wheelbase (inches): 112.2, front track (inches): 59.8, rear track (inches): 60.2 and curb to curb turning circle (feet): 35.4
Front fog lights
Projector beam lens Bi-Xenon headlights
Heat reflective glass
Luxury trim alloy & leather on gearknob
Pearl paint
Fixed rear window with defogger
Tinted glass on cabin
Weights: curb weight (lbs) 3,497
Windshield wipers with automatic intermittent wipe
There were five sport sedans that the editorial team of Inside Line has compared and these are as follows:
2007 BMW 335i (MSRP $46,650 and Edmunds.com True Market Value (TMV) of $44,290) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 300-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission;
2008 Cadillac CTS (MSRP $44,715 and TMV of $44,159) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 304-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission;
2007 Infiniti G35 Sport (estimate $36,800 and TMV of $34,928) -- equipped with high quality Nissan floor mats, a six-cylinder, 306-horsepower engine and five-speed automatic transmission;
2008 Lexus IS350 (MSRP $47,815 and TMV of $47,651) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 306-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission; and
2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport (MSRP $41,935 and TMV of $41,841) -- equipped with a six-cylinder, 268-horsepower engine and seven-speed automatic transmission
According to Inside Line Senior Road Test Editor Josh Jacquot their chosen five sedans are excellent cars and its simply hard to find a reason not to buy any of them. However, the Infiniti G35 Sport from among the five chosen sport sedans possess an engaging driving character, high feature content, and above all an affordable price which adds up to its appeal.
The 2007 BMW 335i ranks second and was highly praised for performance and comfort. Meanwhile, the 2008 Cadillac CTS was in third place and was chosen for its superior interior design and quality. Toyotas 2008 Lexus IS350 came in fourth place and was included for its performance. In the fifth place is the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 which the editors which the editors has praised for its high-end audio and navigation system.
Vehicle Rankings from 2007-2008 Sport Sedan Comparison Test
1. 2007 Infiniti G35 Sport
2. 2007 BMW 335i
3. 2008 Cadillac CTS
4. 2008 Lexus IS350
5. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350
Here are some of the specs of the 2007 Infiniti G35 Sport just for you to have an idea of why it won the comparison test conducted by Inside Line on sports sedans:
Performance & Efficiency
3,498 cc 3.5 liters V 6 front engine with 95.5 mm bore, 81.4 mm stroke, 10.6 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder VQ35
Premium unleaded fuel 91
Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 26 and EPA city (mpg): 19
Multi-point injection fuel system
20 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank
Power: 228 kW , 306 HP SAE @ 6,800 rpm; 268 ft lb , 363 Nm @ 5,200 rpm
Handling, Ride & Braking
Four-wheel ABS
Brake assist system
Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs
Electronic brake distribution
Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management
Immobilizer
Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
Stability control
Wishbone front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , multi-link rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs
Exterior & Aerodynamics
Body color front and rear bumpers
Chrome/bright trim around side windows
Driver and passenger power partial-painted door mirrors
External dimensions: overall length (inches): 187, overall width (inches): 69.8, overall height (inches): 57.2, wheelbase (inches): 112.2, front track (inches): 59.8, rear track (inches): 60.2 and curb to curb turning circle (feet): 35.4
Front fog lights
Projector beam lens Bi-Xenon headlights
Heat reflective glass
Luxury trim alloy & leather on gearknob
Pearl paint
Fixed rear window with defogger
Tinted glass on cabin
Weights: curb weight (lbs) 3,497
Windshield wipers with automatic intermittent wipe
2008年1月5日星期六
Urge Incontinence: The Case of the Overactive Bladder
Urgency is a word which describes a pressing necessity, like there is a need to do something immediately. It is a normal feeling to have most especially in situations that are of utmost importance. Paying the electricity bill that has been long overdue, or finishing a business report that will be presented during a board meeting --- these are only a few examples of urgent matters that we cannot afford to delay. But if a person feels the urge to pass water, a urinary problem might be involved. Most people need to pass water every three to four hours during the day and up to once or twice in the night. For normal urination, the muscular wall of the bladder has to contract at the same time as a valve mechanism at the outlet of the bladder relaxes.
Urge incontinence is a urinary problem characterized by a sudden uncontrollable urge to urinate and frequent urination. It is often necessary to use the bathroom as frequently as every two hours and bed wetting is common. With urge incontinence, the bladder contracts and squeezes out urine involuntarily. Sometimes a large amount of urine is released.
With urge incontinence, the bladder contracts and squeezes out urine involuntarily. Sometimes a large amount of urine is released. Accidental urination can be triggered by sudden change in position or activity, hearing or touching running water and drinking a small amount of liquid.
Urge incontinence occurs when a person experiences a strong desire to empty the bladder, followed almost immediately by an involuntary loss of urine. People with urge incontinence complain of urgency with little or no warning, and may experience troublesome symptoms such as not reaching the toilet in time, a frequent need to urinate, passing of urine several times during the night, and bedwetting. The volume of urine loss varies from small to large amounts depending on bladder capacity.
The most common cause of urge incontinence is inappropriate bladder contractions. Two bladder abnormalities commonly cause the disorder. The most common is a neurogenic bladder (overactive type), which is caused by brain injury or spinal cord injury or disease that interrupts nerve conduction above the sacrum and results in loss of bladder sensation and motor control.
Medical professionals describe such a bladder as unstable, or overactive. A doctor might call the condition reflex incontinence if it results from overactive nerves controlling the bladder. Urge incontinence can mean that the bladder empties during sleep, after drinking a small amount of water, or when one touches water or hear it running like when someone else is taking a shower or washing dishes.
There are several neurological diseases and disorders associated with a neurogenic bladder, including the following:
Alzheimer's disease
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinson's disease
Ruptured intervertebral disk
Stroke
Syphilis
Traumatic brain or upper spinal cord injury
Tumors located in the brain or spinal cord
Urge incontinence can also be cause by a bladder infection. Diabetes can cause excessive production of urine and very frequent trips to the toilet.
Involuntary actions of bladder muscles can occur because of damage to the nerves of the bladder, to the nervous system (spinal cord and brain), or to muscles themselves. Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, brain tumors, and other types of that occurs during surgery can harm bladder nerves or muscles.
Other causes for urge incontinence include atrophic vaginitis, diet, caffeine, and carbonated beverages. Spicy foods, and tomato-based foods can also irritate the bladder and cause muscle instability in some patients which can result to urge incontinence. Treatment with bladder retraining often cures the problem. Medication may also be advised to relax the bladder. Advice from a continence advisor is also usually helpful.
Urge incontinence is a urinary problem characterized by a sudden uncontrollable urge to urinate and frequent urination. It is often necessary to use the bathroom as frequently as every two hours and bed wetting is common. With urge incontinence, the bladder contracts and squeezes out urine involuntarily. Sometimes a large amount of urine is released.
With urge incontinence, the bladder contracts and squeezes out urine involuntarily. Sometimes a large amount of urine is released. Accidental urination can be triggered by sudden change in position or activity, hearing or touching running water and drinking a small amount of liquid.
Urge incontinence occurs when a person experiences a strong desire to empty the bladder, followed almost immediately by an involuntary loss of urine. People with urge incontinence complain of urgency with little or no warning, and may experience troublesome symptoms such as not reaching the toilet in time, a frequent need to urinate, passing of urine several times during the night, and bedwetting. The volume of urine loss varies from small to large amounts depending on bladder capacity.
The most common cause of urge incontinence is inappropriate bladder contractions. Two bladder abnormalities commonly cause the disorder. The most common is a neurogenic bladder (overactive type), which is caused by brain injury or spinal cord injury or disease that interrupts nerve conduction above the sacrum and results in loss of bladder sensation and motor control.
Medical professionals describe such a bladder as unstable, or overactive. A doctor might call the condition reflex incontinence if it results from overactive nerves controlling the bladder. Urge incontinence can mean that the bladder empties during sleep, after drinking a small amount of water, or when one touches water or hear it running like when someone else is taking a shower or washing dishes.
There are several neurological diseases and disorders associated with a neurogenic bladder, including the following:
Alzheimer's disease
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinson's disease
Ruptured intervertebral disk
Stroke
Syphilis
Traumatic brain or upper spinal cord injury
Tumors located in the brain or spinal cord
Urge incontinence can also be cause by a bladder infection. Diabetes can cause excessive production of urine and very frequent trips to the toilet.
Involuntary actions of bladder muscles can occur because of damage to the nerves of the bladder, to the nervous system (spinal cord and brain), or to muscles themselves. Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, brain tumors, and other types of that occurs during surgery can harm bladder nerves or muscles.
Other causes for urge incontinence include atrophic vaginitis, diet, caffeine, and carbonated beverages. Spicy foods, and tomato-based foods can also irritate the bladder and cause muscle instability in some patients which can result to urge incontinence. Treatment with bladder retraining often cures the problem. Medication may also be advised to relax the bladder. Advice from a continence advisor is also usually helpful.
2008年1月4日星期五
Mercedes 400E: One Remarkable Sedan
Despite the new models that Mercedes-Benz is developing and introducing, some models are simply remarkable that they continuously evolve into a much better vehicle. An example of which is the Mercedes 400E which was introduced in the year 1992 as the first E-class V8. But two years later the name was change to E420. It was also given some trim changes just to justify the change of name. The production of the 400E/E420 cars covers period from 1992 to 1995 model years with some 15,425 cars sold in the United States at that time. The 400E/E420 has features that appeal to mid-50s customers who enjoy the V8 power and all the comfort that comes with the E-class.
The 400E sedan has a weight of 3,660 lb and can travel 60 miles per hour in a matter of seven seconds. It is also capable of traveling 150+ mph all day long and yet delivers a mileage figure that is almost on par with its 6-cylinder siblings. The transmission, braking upgrades, and suspension provide the extra power while the tire size remained the same at 195/65/15. The Mercedes 400E is known for its 2.24 rear differential hampered performance off the line but what many do not know that performance on the highway is the true expertise of this model. The mixture of lots of smooth torque together with the tall gearing provides the acceleration feel of a jet aircraft that is about to takeoff. The 400E just like the rest of the luxury vehicles that Mercedes has is equipped with common options like the ASR traction control, trunk mounted CD changer, heated front seats, integrated cellular phone, and a rear window sunshade.
The Mercedes 400E performance parts include the 4.2 liter M119.975 engine which has replaced the 4196cc or 256.1 cubic inches engine. The new 4.2 liter M119.975 engine delivers 275 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 295 lb-ft of potent torque at 3900 rpm. The variable valve timing on the intake cams as well as the long intake runners enables the engine to rev up 90% of peak torque not lower than 1500rpm. Other technical highlights of the 400E includes its 32 valve DOHC V8 which comprised of an aluminum alloy block and heads designed for weight reduction, LH sequential multiport fuel injection, silicon crystal cylinder liners to lessen friction and antiknock control---All these are managed by a Control Area Network data management system. The EPA fuel figure rate of the 400E is 18mpg for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving. Each of the Mercedes 400E part utilized for the 3,660 lb sedan is tested for quality and performance.
The 400E offers more power improvements compared to the previous 300E and E320 cars. The car is so powerful that drivers are pinned to the seat whenever upper rev changes. Thats the punch of the 400E. Similarly, the brakes were also improved and are par with many sports cars. Its only drawback is that it lacks the nimble and tossable feel of the previous 300E which has been lost in the V8 performance.
In addition the handling limits of the V8 has easily match those of the earlier cars unfortunately the increased in the weight of the 400E has somewhat numbed the feel of earlier models.
S80s Secret Formula Is Under The Hood
Arresting looks and remarkable ergonomics are not enough to drive aficionados wild. Moreover, Volvo boosts auto performance by perking the engine up. What is under the hood is as equally important as other auto parts. With said modifications, Volvo expects that the Volvo S80 will not only turn heads but turn preferences as well.
Volvo Cars earlier unveiled an entirely new high-efficiency six-cylinder in-line engine that features an advanced induction system that contributes to both good performance and impressive fuel efficiency. A number of innovative solutions created by Volvos pool of engineers made it possible to produce an extraordinarily compact engine. I think that this will be one of the most impressive six-cylinder engines on the market, said Derek Crabb, Vice President Powertrain at Volvo Cars.
The six-cylinder 3.2 liters engine is made entirely of aluminum and has a bigger displacement than its predecessor 2.9. The automaker improved power to 175 kW as is torque, at 320 Nm. This corresponds to increases of 31 kW and 40 Nm respectively. Said engine has been designed to blend with the new six-speed automatic transmission. Further, the entire driveline has been engineered to complement with the rest of the auto parts to create balance and harmonious drive feel in every respect.
Volvo engineers applied a wide range of technologically advanced solutions to the Volvo S80s valvetrain and a variable intake system. The solutions made it possible for the engine to be exploited efficiently throughout the rev range. As such, it could promote alert response and superb performance. This is done without compromising the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.
The Volvo S80s valvetrain features the Cam Profile Switching (CPS) and the Variable Cam Timing (VCT). These features contribute significantly to the flexibility and driveability of the Volvo S80. CPS allows the inlet valves to be lifted to two varied heights depending on the load and speed of the engine. In principle, Cam Profile Switching creates two engines in one, explained Crabb.
We can unite widely differing demands on one and the same engine and easily meet the requirements of customers with entirely different wishes. For instance, we can equally easily satisfy customers who prioritize performance as well as those who are more interested in driving comfort and fuel economy, he further adds.
The VIS, on the other hand, is given two throttle flap valves which adjust the intake manifold volume to complement the driving situation. This system boosts torque and power to manage a thrilling ride. Through precise interplay with the flap valves we actually get three different torque curves that are integrated with one another, said Crabb. Consequently, we can exploit the engines capacity to the maximum and extract the highest possible power throughout the rev range. The result is alert response to the accelerator pedal at both low and high speeds, with both generous power and good driveability.
Another secret ingredient to the Volvo S80s formula is the compact format. Despite the engines 3.2 liter displacement, it has extremely compact exterior dimensions. The entire package is only 3 millimeters longer than Volvos five-cylinder engine. The total engine length is 625 millimeters. A compact format is a matter of safety, explained Crabb. It is particularly important that the engine takes up minimal space longitudinally in the vehicle. Volvos engines are fitted transversely and a compact engine thus has more space to move inside the engine compartment in the event of an impact that deforms the cars front. This helps reduce the risk of engine penetration into the passenger compartment.
The compact solution integrates Shaft In Shaft design. We are very proud of this compact solution, added Crabb. A lot of highly advanced development work was required in order to arrive at a design that ensures smooth and quiet operation.
All told, the new six-cylinder engine offers a premium experience in every respect, concluded Crabb. This applies to its performance and fuel efficiency, and also to its driving comfort and the sound of the engine. The fact that the engines design also helps enhance safety isnt something the customer usually thinks about, but it is naturally a central part of Volvos product concept.
The new six-cylinder engine is built in Fords Bridgend factory in Wales. It is also where Volvo fuel injectors are assembled. The factory, built in 1980, has manufactured about 10 million engines by 2001.
2008年1月3日星期四
Hennesseys SRT600 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
Its faster than a speeding Porsche Cayenne Turbo. It laughs at the face of a BMW X5 and sprints to 60 mph faster than a new Mustang GT. The new super car, Jeeps rowdy Grand Cherokee SRT8 is equipped with a powerful 6.1 liter Hemi V8, delivering a potent 420 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. This SUV family hauler is definitely not your average SUV and you will know soon enough once you hear its throaty roar as it reach a quarter mile in a matter of 13.5 seconds which by the way is only a muscle car territory.
Despite the power delivered by Jeeps Grand Cherokee SRT8 it still doesnt match the performance of the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe and for this same reason why the Hennessey Performance created the new SRT600 package. The Hennessey Performance was the same people responsible for tuning up the Viper and since it wants to always create something more powerful than its previous masterpiece it has developed the performance package that will enable the Grand Cherokee SRT8 to finally defeat the ferocious Dodge V10 Viper in a 0 to 60 and quarter mile sprint.
Actually this was already accomplished with the new Hennessey SRT600 fortified Jeep, the Viper was outpaced to 60 mph by half a second and cross the quarter mile finish line two-tenths sooner than a much lower and lighter Viper.
Ever wondered where the Jeeps added Saturn V-like thrust comes from? Instead of a solid rocket booster, a big Garrett turbocharger has provided the boost to a modified 6.1 liter V8. How did the Hennessey Performance accomplish this? First they started by removing the stock SRT8 V8 and tear it down to the cast-iron cylinder block. Afterwards heavy-duty bearings were added before the installation of aftermarket forged steel connecting rods, forged-aluminum 9.5:1piston, and high performance piston rings.
Hennessey has also reworked the cylinder heads creating a full porting on the intake and exhaust runners along with polished combustion chambers. And on airflow test bench conducted by Hennessey the ported heads flow 360 cfm on each intake port which is about 60 cfm more than stock.
To further increase airflow to the cylinders a single Garrett T4 turbocharger that delivers seven psi of thrust was added. The custom-made stainless-steel headers deliver exhaust to the turbo, then boost is fed through the 3.5 inch polished stainless steel tubing, a big front mount air-to-air aluminum intercooler and custom inlet tubing replete with twin billet-aluminum blow-off valves. To keep the turbos boost in check is a single 44 mm wastegate while the 180 degree thermostat helps the Hemi to remain cool.
Hennessey has also added a high-volume fuel pump that delivers a continuous flow of petrol likewise the oversized fuel injectors and a special fuel-pressure regulator are being monitored by a custom-programmed engine computer. The result of all these process is a 6.1 liter V8 that delivers 600 horsepower at 5200 rpm backed by 650 lb-ft of torque at 4000 revs. Such powerful torque requires a lot of engine airflow that lead the Hennessey to fit a dual three inch diameter stainless steel exhaust system, high flow mufflers, and a polished four inch diameter exhaust tips. At rest, the SRT600 is like a meek lamb but try to flat-foot the throttle and it awakens into a monstrous beast. A word of caution: The Hennessey SRT600 Jeep SRT8 is not for the faint-hearted.
The modifications done on the Jeep SRT8 was maintained at a minimum level which means that aside from the engine, the basic components of the SRT8 like for instance its Jeep fuel filter, the factory SRT spec Brembo disc brakes and many more were not altered. The exterior was however enhanced by adding a few SRT600 badges and optional 20x10.5 inches forged aluminum wheels wrapped in a Michelin Pilot Sport 2 295/30ZR20 tires.
2008年1月2日星期三
Risk Factors for Congestive Heart Disease
Congestive heart disease is the hearts inability to supply enough oxygen and nutrients to meet the needs of the human body. It is commonly caused by a weaken heart muscle, hardening of the arteries, some lung diseases such as cancer and emphysema. Over five million Americans suffer from this disease and it is believed that over half of them will die from their condition within the next 5 years. Congestive heart disease is the leading cause of hospitalization among senior citizens.
A previous heart attack, advanced age, and diabetes are all factors in developing congestive heart disease. While all of these medical conditions are treatable the damage done to the heart muscle cannot be reversed.
Another risk factor that cannot be changed when dealing with congestive heart disease is having a genetic disposition to the disease. Genetic testing and knowledge of the complete family history can go a long way in indicating whether or not congestive heart disease is something that should be a concern for you.
While some risk factors for congestive heart disease cannot be helped, there are many things that you can do to reduce the risk of developing this disease. These factors include such things as chronic high blood pressure, drug or alcohol abuse, thyroid disease, and even heart valve disease.
The best course of action to take is to reduce your risk of developing congestive heart disease and improve the quality of life. Unfortunately, congestive heart disease is difficult to diagnose because it often occurs as a result of or in conjunction with other forms of heart disease. Perhaps the best hope for patients with this disease is to catch it early and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Heart Disease such as Copper, Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Vitamin B, Ginkgo Plus and M.S.M.
There is strong evidence that trace mineral Copper is vital to the tensile strength of the coronary blood vessels.
Scientists have found that people who drink hard water, water rich in calcium and magnesium, stand less chance of developing cardiovascular disease that people who drink soft water.
Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infection. It enhances the immune system and aids in growth and repair of bone and tissue. Vitamin C has show to reduce cholesterol levels and lowers high blood pressure.
Vitamin E supplies Oxygen to the heart and the other muscles in the body. Accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system.
Zinc is needed for healing and maintaining healthy tissues. Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and are the vital components of skin, hair, muscle tissue, the body's organs, blood cells, various enzymes and hormones. Zinc also has a profound influence on the body's ability to resist disease.
Vitamin B taken together as B-Complex work as a team to perform vital biological processes, including energy production and efficient metabolic function.
Ginkgo Plus supplies a comprehensive range of important nutrients needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.
M.S.M maintains the development of the body's protein by forming flexible disulfide bonds between certain amino acids and in maintaining the strength of connective tissue. This allows water and nutrients to flow freely into cells and allows toxins to flow freely out of the cells. M.S.M increases athletic stamina and helps eliminate muscle soreness. M.S.M is a natural supplement that is getting a lot of attention due to its role in tissue healing at the cellular level. It is a natural organic sulfur that comes from rain fall and is found naturally in the human body.
If you are at risk from Congestive Heart Disease then find a good health care professional prior to starting any type of home treatment.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
A previous heart attack, advanced age, and diabetes are all factors in developing congestive heart disease. While all of these medical conditions are treatable the damage done to the heart muscle cannot be reversed.
Another risk factor that cannot be changed when dealing with congestive heart disease is having a genetic disposition to the disease. Genetic testing and knowledge of the complete family history can go a long way in indicating whether or not congestive heart disease is something that should be a concern for you.
While some risk factors for congestive heart disease cannot be helped, there are many things that you can do to reduce the risk of developing this disease. These factors include such things as chronic high blood pressure, drug or alcohol abuse, thyroid disease, and even heart valve disease.
The best course of action to take is to reduce your risk of developing congestive heart disease and improve the quality of life. Unfortunately, congestive heart disease is difficult to diagnose because it often occurs as a result of or in conjunction with other forms of heart disease. Perhaps the best hope for patients with this disease is to catch it early and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Heart Disease such as Copper, Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Vitamin B, Ginkgo Plus and M.S.M.
There is strong evidence that trace mineral Copper is vital to the tensile strength of the coronary blood vessels.
Scientists have found that people who drink hard water, water rich in calcium and magnesium, stand less chance of developing cardiovascular disease that people who drink soft water.
Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infection. It enhances the immune system and aids in growth and repair of bone and tissue. Vitamin C has show to reduce cholesterol levels and lowers high blood pressure.
Vitamin E supplies Oxygen to the heart and the other muscles in the body. Accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system.
Zinc is needed for healing and maintaining healthy tissues. Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and are the vital components of skin, hair, muscle tissue, the body's organs, blood cells, various enzymes and hormones. Zinc also has a profound influence on the body's ability to resist disease.
Vitamin B taken together as B-Complex work as a team to perform vital biological processes, including energy production and efficient metabolic function.
Ginkgo Plus supplies a comprehensive range of important nutrients needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.
M.S.M maintains the development of the body's protein by forming flexible disulfide bonds between certain amino acids and in maintaining the strength of connective tissue. This allows water and nutrients to flow freely into cells and allows toxins to flow freely out of the cells. M.S.M increases athletic stamina and helps eliminate muscle soreness. M.S.M is a natural supplement that is getting a lot of attention due to its role in tissue healing at the cellular level. It is a natural organic sulfur that comes from rain fall and is found naturally in the human body.
If you are at risk from Congestive Heart Disease then find a good health care professional prior to starting any type of home treatment.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
2008年1月1日星期二
Congenital Heart Disease Demystified
This article is an attempt to remove confusion concerning some of the issues regarding congenital heart disease.
Congenital heart disease is a kind of malformation or heart defect that exists somewhere in the heart. In some cases it is a defect that can be found in one of the blood vessels of the heart. It is defined as congenital because the defect is present when a baby is born. It is strongly believed that these types of heart defects take place while the fetus is developing but it is not clear at what stage throughout the nine months that it takes hold. Out of every 1,000 children born, 8 to 10 have this condition.
Some babies show symptoms of congenital heart defects from the very beginning of their lives while other people will not show symptoms until later in their childhoods. In other cases, such a defect is not discovered until a person has become an adult. It is estimated that 500,000 American adults suffer from congenital heart disease.
Trying to discover the cause of congenital heart disease is not easy. Most of the time the cause of it is not known. Doctors and medical researchers have discovered factors that do seem to suggest an increased risk of developing this disease however. One of these risk factors is a chromosomal abnormality or a genetic abnormality such as Down syndrome. Women who drink alcohol, use drugs or take specific types of medication during the period of their pregnancy are more likely to give birth to children with congenital heart defects. When a woman contracts a maternal viral infection such as German measles (also known as rubella) during the first trimester of her pregnancy she is more likely to give birth to a child with this disease.
If someone in the family such as a parent, grandparent or brother or sister was born with a congenital heart defect then the risk of a child in the family being born with it is even higher. For example, the risk for the general population is eight in 1000 but it becomes 16 in 1000 for those who have a family member with it.
There is more than one type of congenital heart disease. Heart valve defects are very common and these are stenosis or narrowing of the heart valves or in severe cases, valves that are narrowed to the point that they do not allow blood through at all. Leaky valves also fall under the category of heart valve defects. Atrial and ventricular septal defects which are defects in the walls between the atria and ventricles of the heart cause some blood which is oxygenated and some blood which is not, to mix which can cause problems in both the right and left areas of the heart. Another type of congenital heart disease is abnormalities in the heart muscle, which can then cause heart failure.
Congenital heart disease can cause symptoms but often times there are no symptoms at all. Sometimes it is necessary to undergo medical tests to determine whether or not a person is afflicted with this disease. If symptoms do show themselves the two most common are shortness of breath and a decreased ability for exercise.
Congenital heart disease is a kind of malformation or heart defect that exists somewhere in the heart. In some cases it is a defect that can be found in one of the blood vessels of the heart. It is defined as congenital because the defect is present when a baby is born. It is strongly believed that these types of heart defects take place while the fetus is developing but it is not clear at what stage throughout the nine months that it takes hold. Out of every 1,000 children born, 8 to 10 have this condition.
Some babies show symptoms of congenital heart defects from the very beginning of their lives while other people will not show symptoms until later in their childhoods. In other cases, such a defect is not discovered until a person has become an adult. It is estimated that 500,000 American adults suffer from congenital heart disease.
Trying to discover the cause of congenital heart disease is not easy. Most of the time the cause of it is not known. Doctors and medical researchers have discovered factors that do seem to suggest an increased risk of developing this disease however. One of these risk factors is a chromosomal abnormality or a genetic abnormality such as Down syndrome. Women who drink alcohol, use drugs or take specific types of medication during the period of their pregnancy are more likely to give birth to children with congenital heart defects. When a woman contracts a maternal viral infection such as German measles (also known as rubella) during the first trimester of her pregnancy she is more likely to give birth to a child with this disease.
If someone in the family such as a parent, grandparent or brother or sister was born with a congenital heart defect then the risk of a child in the family being born with it is even higher. For example, the risk for the general population is eight in 1000 but it becomes 16 in 1000 for those who have a family member with it.
There is more than one type of congenital heart disease. Heart valve defects are very common and these are stenosis or narrowing of the heart valves or in severe cases, valves that are narrowed to the point that they do not allow blood through at all. Leaky valves also fall under the category of heart valve defects. Atrial and ventricular septal defects which are defects in the walls between the atria and ventricles of the heart cause some blood which is oxygenated and some blood which is not, to mix which can cause problems in both the right and left areas of the heart. Another type of congenital heart disease is abnormalities in the heart muscle, which can then cause heart failure.
Congenital heart disease can cause symptoms but often times there are no symptoms at all. Sometimes it is necessary to undergo medical tests to determine whether or not a person is afflicted with this disease. If symptoms do show themselves the two most common are shortness of breath and a decreased ability for exercise.
The Most Common Types Of Heart Disease
This article is written to take some of the mystery (and hopefully, some of the fear) from the words, "heart disease."
Although there are many different types of heart disease when someone mentions the words "heart disease" most people think of coronary heart disease first. Coronary heart disease is a "narrowing of the arteries that lead to the heart" however it is important to stress that coronary heart disease is only one form of heart disease.
Cardiovascular disease is one of the most common types of heart disease. In fact, it is the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Heart disease affects both the structure of the heart and the functioning of it or sometimes both. A number of conditions fall under the category of heart disease and these include coronary heart disease (which takes into account heart attacks), heart failure, heart valve disease, abnormal heart rhythms (or arrhythmias), congenital heart disease, pericardial disease, aorta disease and Marfan syndrome, heart muscle disease (or cardiomyopathy), and vascular disease (blood vessel disease).
Coronary artery disease (or abbreviated to CAD) is another name for atherosclerosis or simply hardening of the arteries. It is the arteries that make it possible for nutrients and oxygen to make it to the heart. This is also one of the more common types of heart disease.
The average heart beats 60 to 100 times per minute in a steady even manner. This works out to be approximately 100,000 each and every day. However for reasons unknown to the medical community, sometimes the heart falls out of rhythm. This leads to an abnormal heartbeat or an irregular heartbeat, which is known as arrhythmia. Also known as a dysrhythmia, in this cause a change takes place to the rhythm of the heart, which can lead to a heartbeat that is too fast, too slow or uneven in how it beats. This is one of the more unusual types of heart disease.
The term "heart failure" is somewhat misleading. Heart failure does not mean that the heart has failed or that it has ceased to work properly. Instead it means that the pumping action of the heart is not as good as it should be. Heart failure affects an average of five million Americans every year and is the number one cause of hospitalization for individuals over the age of 65.
The heart has four chambers and heart valves lie at the exit of each one and allow one-way blood flow to make its way through the heart. Heart valve disease takes place when there is a problem with any one of these heart valves. Some examples of heart valve disease include aortic stenosis, mitral valve insufficiency and mitral valve prolapse.
Congenital heart disease is a problem that occurs before a baby is born and is a defect in the way the heart is structured or else in the structure of the blood vessels. Congenital heart disease sometimes does not show itself until a person is a child and in some cases, until they become an adult. Congenital heart defects affect an average of 8 out of every 1,000 babies born on an annual basis.
Cardiomyopathies are diseases that occur to affect the muscle of the heart. Generally this includes heart muscles that are enlarged or else have become stiff or thickened over a period of time. Heart muscle disease makes it difficult for the heart to adequately pump blood. If it is left untreated, a cardiomyopathy will get worse as time progresses and can very often lead to both heart failure as well as abnormal heart rhythms.
Pericarditis is a condition that involves the lining of the heart becoming inflamed. This is one of the more unusual types of heart disease. This condition is actually rather rare and is most often caused by one type of infection or another.
The aorta is the biggest artery in the heart and a number of conditions can cause it to either tear or to widen (or dilate). Thee include the genetic condition known as Marfan Syndrome, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, connective tissue disorders and injury. This is one of the types of heart disease that is somewhat rare.
Although there are many different types of heart disease when someone mentions the words "heart disease" most people think of coronary heart disease first. Coronary heart disease is a "narrowing of the arteries that lead to the heart" however it is important to stress that coronary heart disease is only one form of heart disease.
Cardiovascular disease is one of the most common types of heart disease. In fact, it is the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Heart disease affects both the structure of the heart and the functioning of it or sometimes both. A number of conditions fall under the category of heart disease and these include coronary heart disease (which takes into account heart attacks), heart failure, heart valve disease, abnormal heart rhythms (or arrhythmias), congenital heart disease, pericardial disease, aorta disease and Marfan syndrome, heart muscle disease (or cardiomyopathy), and vascular disease (blood vessel disease).
Coronary artery disease (or abbreviated to CAD) is another name for atherosclerosis or simply hardening of the arteries. It is the arteries that make it possible for nutrients and oxygen to make it to the heart. This is also one of the more common types of heart disease.
The average heart beats 60 to 100 times per minute in a steady even manner. This works out to be approximately 100,000 each and every day. However for reasons unknown to the medical community, sometimes the heart falls out of rhythm. This leads to an abnormal heartbeat or an irregular heartbeat, which is known as arrhythmia. Also known as a dysrhythmia, in this cause a change takes place to the rhythm of the heart, which can lead to a heartbeat that is too fast, too slow or uneven in how it beats. This is one of the more unusual types of heart disease.
The term "heart failure" is somewhat misleading. Heart failure does not mean that the heart has failed or that it has ceased to work properly. Instead it means that the pumping action of the heart is not as good as it should be. Heart failure affects an average of five million Americans every year and is the number one cause of hospitalization for individuals over the age of 65.
The heart has four chambers and heart valves lie at the exit of each one and allow one-way blood flow to make its way through the heart. Heart valve disease takes place when there is a problem with any one of these heart valves. Some examples of heart valve disease include aortic stenosis, mitral valve insufficiency and mitral valve prolapse.
Congenital heart disease is a problem that occurs before a baby is born and is a defect in the way the heart is structured or else in the structure of the blood vessels. Congenital heart disease sometimes does not show itself until a person is a child and in some cases, until they become an adult. Congenital heart defects affect an average of 8 out of every 1,000 babies born on an annual basis.
Cardiomyopathies are diseases that occur to affect the muscle of the heart. Generally this includes heart muscles that are enlarged or else have become stiff or thickened over a period of time. Heart muscle disease makes it difficult for the heart to adequately pump blood. If it is left untreated, a cardiomyopathy will get worse as time progresses and can very often lead to both heart failure as well as abnormal heart rhythms.
Pericarditis is a condition that involves the lining of the heart becoming inflamed. This is one of the more unusual types of heart disease. This condition is actually rather rare and is most often caused by one type of infection or another.
The aorta is the biggest artery in the heart and a number of conditions can cause it to either tear or to widen (or dilate). Thee include the genetic condition known as Marfan Syndrome, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, connective tissue disorders and injury. This is one of the types of heart disease that is somewhat rare.
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