Cardiac Changes, Research Paper Example

The importance of the cardiac system in the human body is attributed to its role in the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to the body organs and the waste products of metabolism to the body’s excretory organs. With aging, the blood vessels and the myocardial stiffen, the responsiveness of B-adrenoceptor is decreased and autonomic reflex in controlling the heart rates is impaired (Brasher & McCance, 2010). The health implication of the cardiac system is at minimum and no significant changes are notable in its functionality except in a situation of illness or an increase in the level of blood flow. However, aging cardiac conductivity is associated with cardiovascular diseases especially the heart diseases but majority of these diseases can be prevented.

Aging is also associated with insignificant electrocardiographic (ECG) changes. The characteristic features associated with these changes include slight lengthening of PR, QT and the QRS intervals. There is also a moderation of the concentrations of some enzymes such as catecholamine whose role includes manipulation of the speed as well as the force of contractions of the heart. This consequently results to a lengthened contraction interval, the weakening of the cardiac force and an escalating demand for energy for the heart muscle. The efficiency and performance of the heart is greatly affected and energy expenditure is increased in old people as compared to the young ones (Brasher & McCance, 2010).   Although these changes and limitations are anticipated with aging cardiac conductivity and electrocardiographic changes, the health status of the older people plays a vital role in the sustenance of adequate functioning of the cardiac system on daily basis (Touhy  & Jett, 2012).  The effects of aging cardiac conductivity and electrocardiographic changes are only evident in case the victim experiences mental or physical challenges.

References

Brasher, V.L. & McCance K.L., (2010). Structure & function of the cardiovascular system 6^th   Ed. Louis, MQ: Mosby.

Touhy, T. A., & Jett, K., (2012). Ebersole & Hess’ toward healthy aging: Human needs nursing  response. 8^th Ed.: St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier.