RT Book, Section A1 Cassady, Sandra L. A1 Cahalin, Lawrence P. A2 DeTurk, William E. A2 Cahalin, Lawrence P. SR Print(0) ID 6872739 T1 Chapter 6. Cardiovascular Pathophysiology T2 Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy: An Evidence-Based Approach, 2e YR 2011 FD 2011 PB The McGraw-Hill Companies PP New York, NY SN 978-0-07-159814-9 LK accessphysiotherapy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=6872739 RD 2024/10/12 AB Despite the increased emphasis on health promotion and prevention, advances in technology, and the development of evidence-based treatment regimens, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease (ASHD) remains the leading cause of cardiovascular death and disability in the United States.1–3 All physical therapists, regardless of area of specialization or practice setting, treat patients with cardiovascular disease. Common symptoms of cardiovascular disease include dyspnea, chest pain, claudication, palpitations, syncope, and fatigue. None of these symptoms, however, are specific to a given system or cardiovascular disorder. By understanding the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of common cardiovascular diseases, physical therapists are more likely to deliver safe interventions. The onset or change in symptoms detected during an examination may indicate the development or progression of a serious and potentially life-threatening disease.