Information for the public
Terms explained
Terms explained
Anaemia
A condition in which a person doesn't have enough red cells or haemoglobin in their blood to carry oxygen around the body. Haemoglobin is the substance that helps to store and carry oxygen in red blood cells. People with anaemia may often feel dizzy, breathless or depressed.
Cardiovascular risk factors
Cardiovascular risk factors increase the risk of a person having cardiovascular disease. Examples include high blood pressure, smoking, and having high levels of fats (such as cholesterol) in the blood.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
A test that measures the electrical activity of a person's heart. It involves pads (electrodes) being stuck to the arms, legs, chest and trunk.
Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN)
A drug used to relieve or prevent angina. It is usually given as a spray or in the form of a tablet.
Heart attacks
Heart attacks happen when an artery in the heart becomes blocked. Blood cannot reach part of the heart, which becomes damaged because of lack of oxygen.
Opioid
An opioid is a type of medication given to relieve pain, for example, morphine. It is given as an injection into the vein.