Tachycardia''s toll: tachycardia induced cardiomyopathy — a case study

Cardiac arrhythmias are a well known cause of mortality for patients with heart disease. However, sinus tachycardia is a more unusual arrhythmia which can lead to serious heart damage or death. Even young patients with structurally normal hearts may become gravely ill.

This case study outlines the condition of sinus tachycardia, and associated changes in heart function, altered cellular structure of the myocardium and compensatory mechanisms in the body. Treatment modalities, including electro-physiological studies and drug therapies to moderate the tachycardia and myocardial oxygen demand of the heart, are discussed. Fourteen year old ‘Ben’ was previously a well, active and outgoing youth who suddenly became critically ill. He endured weeks of hospitalisation, numerous serious complications including Torsade de pointes arrhythmia, Cheyne-Stokes respirations, nausea and dizziness during this acute phase. Despite challenges, Ben's severely compromised heart muscle recovered at a remarkable rate.     

Traditional Practices of Women From India: Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Newborn Care

This article describes maternal and child care practices among women from India. As in all cultures, certain beliefs exist surrounding what facilitates a good pregnancy and its outcome, as well as negative sanctions. These practices continue to influence many immigrant women to whom western practices are either unknown or unacceptable. An understanding of the traditional belief system of such women can ease their adaptation into the Canadian and U.S. health care systems.