Clinical Definition Microvascular coronary dysfunction is a cardiovascular condition that affects the capillaries and arterioles connected to the myocardium. Microvascular dysfunction interferes with proper dilation of the small vessels carrying oxygen to the myocardium. Ischemia and angina may develop as a result of microvascular coronary dysfunction. In Our Own Words The heart pumps blood to…
Migraine
Clinical Definition A migraine is a headache disorder that impacts more than one in ten people. Migraines tend to be recurrent and can be moderate to severe. Pain occurs when excited brain cells trigger the trigeminal nerve to release chemicals that cause the blood vessels on the surface of the brain become dilate and become…
Mitral Valve Prolapse
Clinical Definition Mitral valve prolapse is a condition in which one or both of the mitral valve flaps collapse backwards into the left atrium of the heart. As a result of the valve abnormality, a small amount of blood may regurgitate through the valve. Treatment depends on severity and symptoms, but typically ranges from monitoring…
Mitral Valve Stenosis
Clinical Definition Mitral valve stenosis is a narrowing of the mitral valve orifice, impeding the filling of the left ventricle. Rheumatic heart disease is typically the cause, but the stenosis can also be linked to calcifications, infection, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or heart disease. Those affected may have abnormal heart rhythms, chest pain and fatigue. Treatment…