Heart disease
Heart disease refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart's ability to function properly. It is a broad term that encompasses various disorders of the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), heart valve disease, heart failure, and congenital heart defects.
Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease, and it occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. This can cause chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or a heart attack.
Heart rhythm disorders occur when the electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat are disrupted, causing the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. This can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, and fainting.
Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart valves become damaged or diseased, which can prevent the heart from functioning properly. Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and ankles.
Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and ankles.
Congenital heart defects are abnormalities in the heart's structure that are present at birth. These defects can affect the heart's valves, chambers, or blood vessels and can cause a variety of symptoms depending on their severity.
See also: all definitions