The Heart
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The heart is a muscle which pumps oxygen and nutrient rich blood to all parts of the body. It lies in the chest and is protected by the boney rib cage and sternum.
The heart is divided into four chambers: two upper chambers (the atria) and two lower chambers (the ventricles). Four valves separate the chambers and allow the blood to flow in one direction.
The right chambers of the heart (right atrium and right ventricle) accepts blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs where the blood picks up oxygen. The blood then flows to the left-sided heart chambers (left atrium and left ventricle), which then distributes the oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body and vital organs (via the aorta).
Since the heart is a muscle, it needs nutrients of its own. It receives its own blood supply from the coronary arteries.
Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
- Mild or severe chest discomfort, often described as a heaviness, burning or aching
- Feelings that may be mistaken for heartburn or indigestion
- Discomfort may also be felt in the arms (especially the left arm), neck, jaw or teeth
- The discomfort usually worsens with increased activity and improves with rest
- Symptoms may be accompanied by sweating and/or nausea and vomiting
If you think you are having a heart attack, you should take an aspirin and call 911.
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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This site provides materials for information and education only. It is not to be considered medical advice. LVCA encourages you to see your physician for any of the health issues discussed here. The field of medicine changes on a regular basis, therefore we do not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided on this site, nor do we guarantee that the information represents the most currently accepted standards.
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