Question Easy: Which of the following clinical signs is most commonly associated with left-sided heart failure? 🌱
A) Peripheral oedema
B) Jugular venous distension
C) Raised JVP with hepatojugular reflux
D) Basal lung crackles
E) Hepatomegaly
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer: D) Basal lung crackles
Question Easy Explanation: In left-sided heart failure, the heart’s ability to pump blood to the systemic circulation is compromised, leading to pulmonary congestion. This results in the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, often presenting with basal crackles on auscultation. According to NICE guidelines, this is a key sign of pulmonary oedema typically associated with left-sided heart failure. 🌿
Question Medium: A 55-year-old man presents with a persistent dry cough and exertional dyspnoea for the past four months. He is a non-smoker and works as a stone mason. What is the most likely diagnosis? 🏗️
A) Bronchial asthma
B) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
C) Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
D) Silicosis
E) Sarcoidosis
Explanations & Answers:
Question Medium Answer: D) Silicosis
Question Medium Explanation: Silicosis is an occupational lung disease common in individuals exposed to silica dust, such as stone masons. The chronic form presents with a persistent dry cough and dyspnoea. This condition is characterised by the formation of nodules and fibrosis in the lungs. NICE and NHS guidelines stress the importance of occupational history for accurate diagnosis of respiratory conditions. 🛠️
Question Hard: A 48-year-old woman with a history of hypertension and hyperlipidaemia presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe tearing chest pain radiating to the back. Her blood pressure is 170/100 mmHg in the right arm and 180/110 mmHg in the left arm. What is the most likely diagnosis? 🚨
A) Acute myocardial infarction
B) Pulmonary embolism
C) Aortic dissection
D) Pericarditis
E) Pneumothorax
Explanations & Answers:
Question Hard Answer: C) Aortic dissection
Question Hard Explanation: Aortic dissection presents with a sudden onset of severe, tearing chest pain that radiates to the back, often associated with differences in blood pressure between the two arms. This is due to an intimal tear in the aorta, causing blood to dissect through the media layer. This condition requires urgent attention, and NICE guidelines highlight the importance of recognising such classical presentations for timely intervention. 🔍
Medical fact of the day: In the UK, approximately seven million people live with cardiovascular disease, and it remains a leading cause of death. Early intervention and lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases.
Quote of the day: “In the heart of every patient is a story waiting to be heard, and in the hands of every healthcare worker lies the power to inspire healing through compassion.” 🌟