Alfred Nobel, Nitroglycerin, and Heart Disease

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Nitroglycerin can be used in many different things, such as in gun powder, dynamite, propellers on rockets. It has a molecular weight of 227.11 grams, boiling point at standard pressure is 218 C (424.4 F), and the melting point at standard pressure is 13 C (15.4 F). It is slightly soluble in water and the National Fire Protection Association determined it was a moderate fire hazard. The chemical formula for Nitroglycerin is C3H5N3O9. It is aslo used as a medicine used to prevent chest pain (also known as agnia). The medicine relaxes the blood vessels to the heart so the blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart increases. Nitroglycerin comes in sublingual tablets (also known as “under the tongue tablets”. These are placed under the tongue and let the dissolve), buccal tablets (also known as “long- acting tablets”. These are placed under the top lip, between the cheek and the gum and let it dissolve), and a spray which is held up-right as close to the mouth as possible, hold it a close to the mouth as possible and spray, then close the mouth immediately. Do not swallow. Side effects of Nitroglycerin are: headache, upset stomach, rash, dry mouth, flushing or feeling very warm suddenly, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain (agnia) and fainting. Nitroglycerin is used along with other drugs to treat Congestive Heart Failure and heart attacks. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) happens when the heart’s inablility to strongly pump blood through the heart causes the fluid called congestion to buildup in the lungs and other body tissues. Contrary to what most people think, CHF doesn’t mean that the heart suddenly stops working. It just means that the blood flow isnt as strong as it should be. The most common reason for heart attacks is from Coronary Artery Disease, where the coronary arteries in the heart are either narrowing, or there is a blockage from fluid or blood buildup

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