How We Die, Reflections on Life's Final Chapter Chapter Summary & Analysis | Chapter 2

Chapter 2 Summary

In Chapter 2, "A Valentine - and How it Fails," Dr. Nuland expands upon the reader's knowledge of the heart and its ability to work properly. As the chapter begins, as detailed a description of the heart as can be found in tomes of medical knowledge is provided. Pictures of the heart's chambers and large connectors are added to assist in his explanation. Incorporated into his explanation of the heart's inner workings, Dr. Nuland adds medical statistics and etymology.

The first correctly diagnosed myocardial infarction, occurring in 1878, is detailed as well as a mention of the invention of the electrocardiogram in 1903. As Dr. Nuland describes, in great detail, the processes by which the heart operates, he also adds the symptoms observed when it fails. It is in this manner that Dr. Nuland offers his knowledge and understanding of the principles on how we die from ischemic heart disease.