Widow maker
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
-
For other uses, see Widowmaker.
A Widow maker is the nickname for a left anterior descending artery stenosis. It is caused by a build-up of cholesterol plaque, also known as atherosclerosis, within the left main coronary artery, which severely reduces the blood flow to the left ventricular heart muscle. This plaque frequently causes sudden cardiac death. As this is a condition that has resulted in the deaths of many men it was given the nickname of Widow Maker.
In detected conditions medications like Coumadin, a blood thinner, can be used to prevent the blood from clotting. This drug works by reducing the ability of blood to clot by blocking Vitamin K, which is naturally used by the body to help with blood clotting. Such foods considered healthly choices as broccoli and spinach as well as some cooking oils such as canola and soybean are high in Vitamin K. Research shows that a low fat and LDL cholesterol diet along with reducing excess weight and doctor monitored medications can help reverse the affects of atherosclerosis therefore reducing the risk of a heart attack. Any changes in diet, medications or heath regiment should first be discussed a medical doctor.
One reactive measure to prevent sudden cardiac death is an implanted defibrillators which will detect when the heart goes into fibrillation and sends a powerful electric shock to the heart.
[edit] External links
Sources:
