Anemia Low RBC’s or Low Hemoglobin Low in iron Symptoms: Fatigue, bruise easily, paleness, rapid heart rate Sickle Cell Anemia – African Descent- low oxygen due to shape of RBC’s

Aneurysm Ballooning out or saclike formation on an arterial wall. Weakens arterial wall. If burst, hemorrhage will occur. Symptoms: pain or pressure. No symptoms at all. Brain, Aorta, and Stomach

Arteriosclerosis Hardening or thickening of the arterial walls. Results in a loss of elasticity. Result of aging. May cause high blood pressure. May lead to an aneurysm.

Atherosclerosis When fatty plaque (cholesterol) are deposited on the walls of arteries. It narrows the arterial opening, which reduces blood flow. Treatment: Low cholesterol diet and exercise. Angioplasty (stent) or Bypass surgery

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Heart does not beat enough to supply the body with blood. It can involve right or left side. Symptoms: edema (swelling), distension of neck veins, weak, rapid pulse, pink, frothy mucous with a cough Treatment: Medicine, compression wrap, bed rest

Embolus Foreign substance circulation in the bloodstream. Air, blood clot, bacterial clumps, fat, etc… Causes blockage of blood vessel

Hemophilia Inherited disease that occurs in males, but is carried by females. Lacks the protein that allows blood to clot. Minor cut could lead to prolonged bleeding.

Hypertension High blood pressure 140/90 Who does it affect? Family History, race (African Americans),obesity, stress, smoking, aging, high fat diet Treatment: medicine, limit stress, avoid tobacco, low sodium diet

Leukemia Affects bone marrow or lymph High number of immature white blood cells Symptoms: fever, swelling of lymph nodes, fatigue, anemia, bleeding gums, excessive bruising, and joint pain Treatment: chemotherapy, radiation, bone marrow transplant

Myocardial Infarction (MI) Heart Attack Blockage in an artery that cuts off supply of blood to the heart. The affected heart tissue dies (infarct). Death may occur immediately Symptoms: pain in arm, neck, or jaw, pressure in chest, sweating, cold, clammy skin Treatment: CPR, Medication, bed rest, low fat diet, avoidance of tobacco and stress, regular exercise and weight control

Phlebitis Inflammation of a vein Common in leg; blood clots may form Symptom: Pain, redness, edema, discoloration Treatment: Pain medication, elevation of affected area, support hose, if necessary surgery.

Varicose Veins Dilated, swollen veins that have lost elasticity and cause decrease blood flow. Legs, pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing Treatment: exercise, support hose, avoidance of prolonged sitting or standing and tight fitting or restrictive clothing. In severe cases, surgery can be performed.