Heart disease is any condition that affects the cardiovascular system. It is the leading cause of death in the US. Heart disease can develop when a part or all of your heart is damaged, there is a problem with heart blood vessels, or there is low oxygen and nutrient supply in your heart. You can reduce the risk of most heart problems through lifestyle changes. Heart disease Sebring presents different symptoms depending on the type. Some conditions may not show signs. The common symptoms of heart disease include chest pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, lightheadedness, and swelling due to fluid retention. There are many types of heart disease, including:
Coronary artery disease
Coronary artery disease or coronary heart disease, is the most common form of heart disease. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to your heart become clogged with plaque, making them harden and narrow. Plaque comprises cholesterol and other substances. The clogging reduces blood supply, and your heart receives less oxygen and nutrients. Over time, your heart muscle weakens, and the risk of heart failure and arrhythmias increases.
Congenital heart defects
If you have a congenital heart defect, it means you were born with a heart problem. There are many forms of congenital heart defects, including:
Atypical heart valves: This is a condition where valves do not open properly or leak blood.
Septal defects: This is where you have a hole in the wall between the lower chambers of the upper chambers of the heart.
Atresia: This is where one of the heart valves is missing.
Congenital heart disease may involve major structural problems like the absence of a ventricle or abnormal connections between the main arteries that leave your heart. Most congenital heart defects do not cause noticeable symptoms and are only detected during routine medical checkups.
Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat. It happens when the electrical impulses that coordinate your heartbeat work incorrectly. Arrhythmia makes your heart beat too quickly, too slowly, or erratically. An arrhythmia may make you feel like your heart is racing or fluttering. In some patients, arrhythmias can be life-threatening or have severe complications.
Heart failure
Heart failure is when your heart is still working but not as well as it should. It can be caused by untreated coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or arrhythmias. These conditions can alter your heart’s ability to pump or relax appropriately. Congestive heart failure is a form of heart failure resulting from issues with the pumping or relaxing function. Heart failure can be life-threatening, but getting early treatment for heart-related problems can help prevent complications.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is an inherited condition that affects your heart muscles. It makes the muscle walls thicken and contractions harder, affecting your heart’s ability to take in and pump out blood. In some patients, an obstruction can happen. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may not present any symptoms and can worsen over time, leading to various heart issues.
Heart disease is any condition that affects the cardiovascular system. There are many types of heart disease, including heart failure, congestive artery disease, congenital heart defects, arrhythmia, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Schedule an appointment at Vein & Cardiovascular Center for heart disease treatment to prevent life-threatening conditions.
