Heart Anatomy and Function
How many chambers does the heart have, and what are they called?
Four — left & right atrium, left & right ventricle
What is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in young athletes?
Undetected heart abnormality (like HCM)
What genetic disorder causes tall, thin build and long limbs, with a weakened aorta?
Marfan’s Syndrome
What causes the common cold?
A virus (usually rhinovirus)
What infection inflames the lungs and fills them with fluid or pus?
Pneumonia
What type of blood do arteries carry, and in which direction?
Oxygenated blood away from the heart
What is Athletic Heart Syndrome?
Structural & functional heart changes in athletes who train often; not usually dangerous
What condition causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped and block blood flow?
Sickle Cell Disease
How is the flu different from the common cold?
Flu symptoms are more severe and caused by influenza virus
What happens in the lungs during an asthma attack?
Airways tighten, swell, and fill with mucus
What causes the “heartbeat”?
A contraction of both atria followed by a contraction of both ventricles
What condition causes the heart walls to thicken and disrupts the heart’s electrical system?
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
What is exertional sickling and why is it dangerous?
Sickling during exercise can block oxygen and cause collapse
What virus causes Mononucleosis?
Epstein-Barr Virus
Name three common asthma triggers.
Exercise, allergens, smoke, cold air, respiratory infections
What is the role of capillaries?
They connect arteries and veins, allowing gas and nutrient exchange
What is Commotio Cordis and what sport is it most common in?
Lethal heart rhythm disruption from a chest blow — common in baseball/softball
What populations are at higher risk for sickle cell disease and why?
African, Middle Eastern, Asian, Indian, Mediterranean, Central/South American — due to malaria history
What organ can rupture if someone with mono returns to sports too early?
The spleen
What metabolic condition causes high blood sugar due to insulin problems?
Diabetes
What side of the body is the heart located on?
Just to the left of midline
What does an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) do?
Measures heart rate, rhythm, and function to detect at-risk individuals
Name three symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease.
Intense pain, anemia, jaundice, swelling in hands/feet, frequent infections
What causes strep throat, and how is it treated?
Bacterial infection (Group A Streptococcus); treated with antibiotics
What’s the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 = body doesn’t produce insulin; Type 2 = body can’t use insulin effectively