Abdomen
The portion of the body between the chest and the pelvis containing the abdominal cavity.
Breathing rate
The number of breaths taken per minute, also known as respiratory rate.
Cardiac
Relating to the heart.
Cardiomyopathy
Disease in which the heart muscle loses its normal strength.
Circulation
The flow of blood around the body within the blood vessels and back to the heart.
Dilation
Widening or stretching of a structure such as a blood vessel or heart chamber.
Diuretics
Medicines that increase the amount of urine produced, to get rid of retained fluid.
Heart failure
Inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs.
Inotropes
Medicines that help the heart muscle to contract stronger.
Mitral valve
The valve on the left side of the heart between the two left side chambers (atrium and ventricle).
Vasodilators
Medicines that cause dilation of blood vessels.
