The word "bradydiastole" refers to a slow heart rhythm characterized by a prolonged diastolic phase. It is spelled as [ˌbreɪdɪˈæstəli] in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first two phonetic symbols, "breɪ", represent the sound of the letter "a" as in "gray". The next three symbols, "dɪˈæs", represent the letter combination "diast", pronounced as "dye-ast". The last two symbols, "təli", represent the sound of the letter "e" as in "me". In summary, bradydiastole is pronounced as "BRAY-di-AS-toh-lee".
Bradydiastole is a medical term that refers to an abnormally slow and prolonged relaxation phase of the heart during diastole, the period when the heart muscles are in a relaxed state allowing for blood to flow into the ventricles. It is a combination of two terms, "brady-" meaning slow, and "diastole" which refers to the phase when the heart fills with blood.
During normal heart function, diastole is a crucial period as it allows for the ventricles to fill with blood, providing the heart with the necessary oxygen and nutrients to perform its pumping action effectively. However, in cases of bradydiastole, this relaxation phase is prolonged, resulting in an abnormal delay in the filling of the ventricles.
Bradydiastole can be caused by various factors, including certain cardiac conditions such as bradycardia (a slow heart rate) or heart blockage (a disruption in the electrical conduction system of the heart). Additionally, it may also be associated with certain medications that impact heart rate and rhythm.
Symptoms of bradydiastole can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause but may include fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or an irregular heartbeat. It is essential to diagnose and treat bradydiastole promptly, as it can lead to inadequate blood supply, decreased cardiac output, and potential complications such as heart failure.
Management of bradydiastole aims to address the underlying cause and restore normal heart function. Treatments may include medication adjustments, pacemaker implantation, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare professional are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and overall cardiac health.
Prolongation of the diastole of the heart.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bradydiastole" is derived from Greek roots. "Brady-" comes from the Greek word "bradus", meaning slow or sluggish. "Diastole" is derived from the Greek word "diastellō", which means to expand or dilate. In medical terminology, "diastole" specifically refers to the relaxation phase of the heart's cardiac cycle. Combining these roots, "bradydiastole" refers to a slow or sluggish relaxation phase of the heart.