Pathophysiology Case Study

Introduction:
Having a sound understanding of pathophysiology is imperative for all allied health practitioners within the Australian healthcare system. Pathophysiology is defined to be the functional changes associated with particular diseases (Webster, 2016). Knowledge of pathophysiology and its related mechanisms is essential as it helps with the thorough understanding of certain diseases, its aetiology and its impact on the patient's day-to-day life (ANZPAC, 2012). The aim of all healthcare practitioners is to achieve best possible patient-centered results, make appropriate clinical decisions and problem-solve with the assistance of pathophysiological principles, such as the development and underlying mechanisms of the disease and associated
Old age increases the chance of developing chronic diseases such as ischaemic heart disease and BHF (Ketata et al., 2012). The patient presents airway obstruction and possible heart complications. Chronic dyspnea on exertion can be linked to many cardiovascular and respiratory problems. Stretch receptors located in the lung's bronchioles detect changes in lung expansion which causes irritation by certain chemical stimuli such as tobacco from smoking (Barnes et al, 2014). As a result, this change increases shortness of breath. As he experiences breathlessness even at rest there is obvious obstruction of
The risk factors BHF (BHF) are mainly hypertension and diabetes. Both these conditions affect cardiac health by placing extra stress on the heart and causing accumulation of plaque artery walls. High blood pressure is a risk factor for atherosclerosis because high pressure in the arteries damages endothelial lining and causes vascular remodeling (Fleg & Strait, 2012) and promotes the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques also develop as a result of diabetes. In diabetic cells, that cannot use glucose, have to find an alternative energy source and usually turn to fats and proteins. The body breaks down fat into fatty acids and sends them to the circulation causing elevated cholesterol levels. The excess cholesterol is ingested by macrophages which turn into foam cells and stimulate a cascade that eventually leads to the formation of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques (American Heart Association, 2015). Atherosclerosis decreases the luminal diameter of the arteries, causing impaired and reduced blood flow which contributes to the onset of BHF (Webster,