The selected disease process is heart failure which occurs when the heart muscle cannot pump enough blood to the body. This condition can result from abnorma

The selected disease process is heart failure which occurs when the heart muscle cannot pump enough blood to the body. This condition can result from abnormalities of systolic or diastolic function or both. Although a primary abnormality can be a change in cardiomyocyte function, there are also changes in collagen turnover of the extracellular matrix. Cardiac structural defects, rhythm abnormalities, and high metabolic demands can also cause HF. In systolic HF (HFrEF) global LV systolic dysfunction predominates. The LV contracts poorly and empties inadequately, leading to increased diastolic volume and pressure and decreased ejection fraction (≤ 40%), In diastolic heart failure (HFpEF) LV filling is impaired, resulting in increased LV end-diastolic pressure at rest or during exertion and Usually, normal LV end-diastolic volume (McDonagh & Dargie, 2022). The clinical manifestations observed in Janessa’s case that could be explained by the pathophysiological mechanisms of heart failure are shortness of breath and weakness. Shortness of breath occurs when the blood "backs up" in the pulmonary veins because the heart can't keep up with the supply causing fluid to leak into the lungs. The weakness is that the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the needs of body tissues. Thus, the body diverts blood away from less vital organs, particularly muscles in the limbs, and sends it to the heart and brain. These clinical manifestations can support a diagnosis of heart failure because endometriosis can increase the risk of heart failure.

The first diagnostic test that would be most appropriate for investigating a diagnosis of heart failure is blood tests that look for a specific protein made by the heart and blood vessels. In heart failure, the level of this protein goes up. Another test is X-ray images which show the condition of the lungs and heart. Another test is an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) which is a quick and painless test that records the electrical signals in the heart to show how fast or how slowly the heart is beating. Another test is an echocardiogram; sound waves create images of the beating heart. This test shows the size and structure of the heart and heart valves and blood flow through the heart. Another test is ejection fraction is a measurement of the percentage of blood leaving your heart each time it squeezes (Inamdar & Inamdar, 2016). This measurement is taken during an echocardiogram. Another test is exercise tests or stress tests often involve walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while the heart is monitored. Another test is a heart MRI scan which uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart. Another test is a coronary angiogram which helps spot blockages in the heart arteries. Another test is myocardial biopsy which is a test where a healthcare professional removes very small pieces of the heart muscle for examination to diagnose certain heart muscle diseases that cause heart failure. Asthma is a chronic lung disease caused by inflammation and muscle tightening around the airways, which makes it harder to breathe. The clinical manifestation of shortness of breath in Janessa’s case can fit asthma. Symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person. Inhaled medication can control asthma symptoms and allow people with asthma to lead a normal, active life.

References

Inamdar, A., & Inamdar, A. (2016). Heart failure: Diagnosis, management and utilization. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 5(7), 62. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm5070062Links to an external site.

McDonagh, T. A., & Dargie, H. J. (2022). The pathophysiology of heart failure. Oxford Textbook of Heart Failure, 181-192. https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780198766223.003.0013Links to an external site.