Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Related

Review Cardiovascular System Exam Questions related questions and content

What is a chronic condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively?

  • A. Dilated cardiomyopathy
  • B. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
  • C. Myocarditis
  • D. Pericarditis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dilated cardiomyopathy. This is a chronic condition characterized by the heart muscle becoming weakened and enlarged, leading to reduced pumping efficiency. This results in symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling. The other choices are incorrect because:
B: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is characterized by thickening of the heart muscle, not weakening and enlargement.
C: Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle, not specifically causing heart muscle weakening and enlargement.
D: Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium (outer lining of the heart), not directly affecting heart muscle function.