The part of the autonomic nervous system originating in the brain stem and the lower part of the spinal cord that, in general, inhibits or opposes the physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system, as in tending to stimulate digestive secretions, slow the heart, constrict the pupils, and dilate blood vessels.
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) Alternative names PSVT; Supraventricular tachycardia Definition: Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is a rapid heart rate, which occurs from time to time (paroxysmal). PSVT starts with events taking place above the ventricles.
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially deadly condition caused by a blood clot that forms in a vein - most commonly the deep veins in the legs. This clot formation can happen if the vein is damaged or if the blood flow in the vein is slow or stops. DVT can cause pain and swelling in the leg, but many times it produces no symptoms. If the clot breaks off and travels in the bloodstream, it can cause damage to the lungs. When a blood clot travels to the lungs, it is called a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE often causes shortness of breath and chest pain. If the lung damage is severe, it can kill people very quickly, even before treatment can be given. For this reason, every effort should be made to prevent a DVT before it happens.