What might cause a widened pulse pressure?

What might cause a widened pulse pressure?

• A. Aortic stenosis, chronic lung disease
• B. Aortic regurgitation, fever, or increased stroke volume
• C. Dehydration, anemia
• D. Coronary artery disease, arrhythmias

Answer: (B)

A widened pulse pressure refers to an increased difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. This phenomenon can occur due to various physiological factors, with certain cardiovascular conditions being key contributors. In the case of aortic regurgitation, the heart experiences volume overload during diastole as the aortic valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow back into the left ventricle. This leads to an increase in stroke volume and elevated systolic blood pressure, while diastolic pressure does not rise proportionately, resulting in a wider pulse pressure. Fever can also elevate metabolic demands, increasing heart rate and stroke volume, which may similarly contribute to this widening. In summary, aortic regurgitation and conditions that increase stroke volume—such as fever—are pivotal in causing a widened pulse pressure, making this response valid. Other options may involve cardiovascular conditions, but they do not typically produce a significant widening of pulse pressure in the same manner.

A widened pulse pressure refers to an increased difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. This phenomenon can occur due to various physiological factors, with certain cardiovascular conditions being key contributors.

In the case of aortic regurgitation, the heart experiences volume overload during diastole as the aortic valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow back into the left ventricle. This leads to an increase in stroke volume and elevated systolic blood pressure, while diastolic pressure does not rise proportionately, resulting in a wider pulse pressure. Fever can also elevate metabolic demands, increasing heart rate and stroke volume, which may similarly contribute to this widening.

In summary, aortic regurgitation and conditions that increase stroke volume—such as fever—are pivotal in causing a widened pulse pressure, making this response valid. Other options may involve cardiovascular conditions, but they do not typically produce a significant widening of pulse pressure in the same manner.