Cardiac Disorders
breaks down the key mechanisms underlying cardiovascular disease—from endothelial dysfunction and sympathetic overactivity to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and atrial fibrillation (AF).
We explore:
• How reduced nitric oxide, oxidative stress, and inflammation drive hypertension
• The RAAS cascade and its pharmacologic targets (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, aldosterone antagonists)
• Sympathetic nervous system mechanisms increasing heart rate, contractility, and afterload
• Age-related vascular changes—loss of Windkessel effect and isolated systolic hypertension
• The pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation, including electrical and structural remodeling, reentry circuits, and hemodynamic consequences
• Clinical implications for stroke risk, rate vs. rhythm control, and acute management
This is essential content for Nurse Practitioner students, advanced pathophysiology courses, and clinicians seeking a deeper grasp of the mechanisms behind cardiovascular disorders and their pharmacologic management.