What does PEA mean in PHYSIOLOGY
Pulseless Electrical Activity, or PEA, is a term used to describe a medical condition where the heart rhythm is abnormal but has no pulse. It can be caused by many different things, such as medication overdose, trauma, cardiac arrest or electrolyte imbalance. PEA also can be associated with shock and hypovolemia (low blood volume). In this situation, the heart's electrical activity is present but not effectively pumping blood throughout the body.
PEA meaning in Physiology in Medical
PEA mostly used in an acronym Physiology in Category Medical that means Pulseless Electrical Activity (cardiac)
Shorthand: PEA,
Full Form: Pulseless Electrical Activity (cardiac)
For more information of "Pulseless Electrical Activity (cardiac)", see the section below.
» Medical » Physiology
Definition
PEA stands for Pulseless Electrical Activity. It describes an electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern in which there is voltage waveforms due to electrical activity in the heart muscle, but no mechanical contraction of the muscles that cause cardiac output and a pulse. This indicates that the electrical signal from the heart is not producing any force for blood circulation.
Cause
PEA can be caused by multiple underlying conditions including hypoxia (low oxygen levels), hypovolemia (low volume of circulating blood), acidosis (high acid content of the body), electrolyte imbalance, medications or toxins affecting muscle contractions, and traumatic injury to chest wall muscles. Hypoxia and hypovolemia are common causes of PEA requiring immediate treatment with intravenous fluid resuscitation and administration of oxygen.
Treatment
Treatment for PEA varies depending on its underlying cause as well as whether or not cardiac arrest has occurred. Treatment may involve restoring adequate ventilation and perfusion through intubation or chest compressions while awaiting advanced care or fibrinolytic therapy if available. Other treatments such as pharmacological agents targeting various underlying causes may also be necessary along with supportive treatment to maintain airway patency and vascular integrity such as fluids and vasopressors if needed.
Essential Questions and Answers on Pulseless Electrical Activity (cardiac) in "MEDICAL»PHYSIOLOGY"
What is Pulseless Electrical Activity?
Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) is a cardiac condition in which the heart rhythm could appear normal on an EKG reading, but no pulse can be felt. PEA usually occurs when there is a blocked or inadequate blood supply to the heart, preventing it from beating adequately.
What are the common causes of Pulseless Electrical Activity?
The most common causes of PEA are hypovolemia, cardiogenic shock (heart failure), hypoxemia (lack of oxygen), electrolyte imbalance, and certain drugs/medications. Additionally, it can also occur due to trauma, toxin exposure and mechanical obstruction of blood flow in the heart.
How is Pulseless Electrical Activity Diagnosed?
PEA is typically diagnosed by performing an electrocardiogram (EKG). An EKG can detect an abnormal heart rhythm that could indicate PEA. Other diagnostic tests may include chest X-rays and echocardiograms.
What are the Symptoms of Pulseless Electrical Activity?
Symptoms of PEA include chest pain, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, lightheadedness or dizziness and confusion. Other symptoms may include sudden collapse with loss of consciousness, seizures and cardiac arrest.
Is Pulseless Electrical Activity treatable?
Yes, PEA is treatable if caught early enough. Treatment involves correcting any underlying cause such as hypovolemia or electrolyte imbalance through providing fluids/blood products or medications as needed to restore normal blood flow to the heart. Also advanced cardiac life support may be required to re-establish a regular heartbeat.
What should I do if I think I am having a Pulseless Electrical Activity episode?
If you think you are experiencing signs or symptoms suggestive of PEA then seek medical help immediately by calling 911 for emergency medical assistance. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking help as this could be potentially fatal.
Is there any follow up care for patients with Pulseless Electrical Activity?
Patients who have suffered from a PEA episode may require further follow-up care such as long-term management if any underlying conditions were found during diagnosis or treatment such as cardiovascular disease or arrhythmias. Your doctor will provide information on any necessary follow up care for your individual situation.
Final Words:
In conclusion, Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) is an ECG pattern that displays a normal heartbeat without producing any circulation of blood around the body due to lack of mechanical contraction in cardiac muscles cells. The potential causes vary from toxication, hormonal imbalances, metabolic disorders to cardiovascular disease etc., and treatment depends on underlying causes aiming at restoring ventilation/perfusion across multiple systems within the body.
PEA also stands for: |
|
| All stands for PEA |