Statisifact
From Circulation, American Heart Association
Welcome!
People have always been fascinated with the heart. To many ancient cultures who lived centuries ago, the heart was seen as the most important organ and responsible for all aspects of our life. Today, after years of research, we understand that the ancient cultures were somewhat correct, for the heart is key in our survival and is in fact closely tied to many of our emotions. Almost everything we do, or feel, elicits a certain response from the heart. When we get nervous, our heart starts to beat faster and faster and when we feel relaxed, our heart seems to calm down. Although we do not feel each individual contraction of our heart, we know it is beating tirelessly.
A normal heart imaged with CT
The heart is an indefatigable pump, but occasionally needs repair. Sometimes our heart does not contract properly. Other times the blood in our heart does not flow in the right direction. Today, after much technological advancement, doctors are able to use imaging tools to look into our heart to diagnose these problems, without having to do surgery. Doctors use properties of radiation, sound, and even magnetism to get a Look into the Heart.
Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of Americans today, and correctly diagnosing heart troubles is the first step to treating these problems. As some new technology seeks to entertain us or comfort us, other technology tries to save us. In this website, learn about the heart and the technologically advanced special instruments doctors use to save our lives.
Learning about the heart...
Heart Basics
The heart is deceptively simple and yet masterfully efficient. Learn about the basics of the circulatory system and the structure and function of the heart. Take a look at some major heart pathologies. This background knowledge is essential to learning how doctors can diagnose heart disease.
Imaging
How do doctors diagnose heart disease? Unravel the mysteries of cardiac function using the electrocardiogram (EKG), X-Ray, nuclear medicine, cardiac catheterization, ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Learn how doctors use state-of-the-art technology to detect diseases with unique techniques.
Interact
Relax, and at the same time, reinforce your knowledge of the heart. Interact through various programs such as word games and simulations.
Site Profile
Who created this website? Take a bit of time to read about us and how we split up the work, our coaches and other acknowledgements.
Glossary
This is a listing of some of the medical words relating to the heart and their definitions.
Help
What kind of web browser should I use? What exactly is Thinkquest? These questions, and more, are answered in this section.