Understand Common Heart Diseases
- Coronary Artery
- Myocarditis
- Rheumatic Heart Condition
- Aortic Valve Disease
- Angina (Heart Pain)
- Heart Attack
- Mitral Valve Disease
- Tricuspid Valve Disease
Get to know some common cardiac diseases!
Common Heart Diseases
Common cardiac diseases encompass a range of conditions affecting the heart’s structure and function, including coronary artery disease and valve disorders.
Coronary Artery
The coronary arteries are vital blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. There are two main coronary arteries: the left coronary artery and the right coronary artery. Blockages in these arteries, often due to plaque buildup, can lead to coronary artery disease and increase the risk of a heart attack.
Heart Attack
A heart attack happens when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked, damaging heart tissue. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea. Immediate treatment may involve medications or cardiac surgery, depending on severity. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Angina Or Heart Pain
Angina is chest discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, or burning in the chest, and can radiate to the shoulders, neck, or arms. Angina is usually triggered by exertion or stress and is relieved by rest or medication. It signals an underlying heart condition that needs attention.
Aortic Valve Disease
Aortic valve disease affects the valve between the heart’s left ventricle and aorta. Narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation) can cause chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Diagnosis often involves echocardiograms. Treatment may include medications or valve repair/replacement by a cardiac surgeon.
Mitral Valve Disease
Mitral valve disease affects the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle. It can cause blood to leak backwards (regurgitation) or restrict blood flow (stenosis), leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Treatment may include medications or surgical repair/replacement by a cardiac surgeon.
Rheumatic
Rheumatic heart disease occurs when untreated strep infections trigger inflammation that damages heart valves. Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Severe cases may require cardiac surgery. Preventive care with antibiotics helps reduce risk.
Tricuspid Valve Disease
Tricuspid valve disease affects the valve between the right atrium and right ventricle. Narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation) can cause swelling, fatigue, and liver congestion. Treatments include medications or, in severe cases, valve repair or replacement by a cardiac surgeon.
