22 october 2021 – 3:29 pm
Researchers from the Catharina Cardiovascular Center together with Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a measuring method to analyze the capillaries of the heart. This is done by measuring blood flow and resistance in these smallest capillaries. A deviating resistance reflects the condition of these capillaries. This makes it possible for cardiologists to make a clearer diagnosis. Until recently, the studies used for this purpose were not comprehensive. Colloquially, disease of the capillaries of the heart is also referred to as the ‘woman’s heart’.
Danielle Keulards, a researcher employed by the Catharina Hospital, obtained her doctorate last week on this new measurement method at TU/e. The method she co-developed is now being used in a number of large heart centers in the Netherlands and abroad.
capillaries in the heart
The ‘women’s heart’ is in the spotlight. In recent years it has been recognized worldwide in the cardiological world that chest pain can be caused not only by the silting up of the larger coronary arteries, but also by increased resistance in the capillaries in the heart. This is called microvascular disease. “We often talk about ‘the woman’s heart’”, explains Keulards: “because more women experience this.”
Treat with drugs
Still, some nuance is needed; although capillary disease is somewhat more common in women, men can also suffer from it. About 40% were male in the study. Keulards: “Fortunately, microvascular disease has a much better prognosis than the blockage of the large coronary arteries, and we can treat patients with medication to reduce the symptoms. It is important, however, to take misunderstood chest pain seriously, in women and men, and to take measurements of the capillaries if necessary.”
Source: Catharina Hospital
—
Editorial Medicalfacts/ Janine Budding
I studied physiotherapy and health care business administration. In addition, I am a registered Independent client supporter and informal care broker. I have a lot of experience in various positions in healthcare, the social domain and the medical, pharmaceutical industry, nationally and internationally. And have broad medical knowledge of most specialties in healthcare. And of the health care laws from which health care is regulated and financed. Every year I attend most of the leading medical conferences in Europe and America to keep my knowledge up-to-date and to keep up with the latest developments and innovations. I am currently studying applied psychology.
My messages on this weblog do not reflect the strategy, policy or direction of an employer, nor are they the work of or for a client or employer.
—-
