Heart disease, which includes conditions like coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure, refers to any ailment that affects the heart.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that heart disease is the foremost cause of death in the United States. Roughly one out of every four deaths in the U.S. is due to heart disease, affecting people of all genders and across all racial and ethnic groups.
Types
Heart disease includes a range of conditions that affect the cardiovascular system, with each condition negatively affecting the heart and blood vessels differently.
Below is an explanation of various types of heart disease:
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
CAD, also referred to as coronary heart disease, is the most common form of heart disease. It occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become blocked by plaque, leading to their narrowing and hardening. This plaque is made up of cholesterol and other substances.
Consequently, the heart receives less oxygen and nutrients due to reduced blood flow, which can weaken the heart muscle over time and increase the risk of heart failure and arrhythmias.
The buildup of plaque in the arteries is known as atherosclerosis, and if plaque ruptures, it can obstruct blood flow and cause a heart attack.
2. Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia is used to describe an irregular heartbeat, occurring when the electrical impulses regulating the heartbeat malfunction. Consequently, the heart may beat too rapidly, too slowly, or irregularly. There are various types of arrhythmias including:
- Tachycardia: Characterized by a rapid heartbeat.
- Bradycardia: Characterized by a slow heartbeat.
- Premature contractions: Occurring as early heartbeats.
- Atrial fibrillation: Marked by an irregular heartbeat.
Individuals may perceive sensations like fluttering or racing in the heart. In some instances, arrhythmias can pose life-threatening risks or lead to severe complications.
3. Dilated Cardiomyopathy
This condition is characterized by the heart chambers enlargement, causing the heart muscle to stretch and thin. Common causes include prior heart attacks, arrhythmias, and exposure to toxins, although genetics can also influence its development.
Consequently, the weakened heart struggles to pump blood effectively, potentially resulting in arrhythmias, heart clots, and heart failure. The American Heart Association (AHA) indicates that it typically affects individuals aged 20 to 60 years.
4. Congenital Heart Defects
A congenital heart defect refers to a heart condition present from birth. There exist numerous types of congenital heart defects, including:
- Abnormal heart valves: Valves may fail to open properly or may allow blood leakage.
- Septal defects: Characterized by a hole in the wall between either the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles) or upper chambers (atria).
- Atresia: Occurs when one of the heart valves is absent.
Heart disease may involve significant structural anomalies, such as the absence of a ventricle or irregular connections between the heart’s major arteries. Many congenital heart defects may not exhibit noticeable symptoms and may only become evident during routine medical examinations.
5. Myocardial Infarction
Commonly known as a heart attack, myocardial infarction occurs when there is a disruption in blood flow to the heart, leading to damage or destruction of a portion of the heart muscle.
The primary cause of a heart attack is typically the presence of plaque, a blood clot, or a combination of both within a coronary artery. Additionally, it can occur if an artery experiences sudden narrowing or spasms.
Learn more about Heart Attack Here
6. Heart Failure
In cases of heart failure, the heart continues to function, albeit not as efficiently as it should. Congestive heart failure, a specific type of heart failure, can arise from issues with the heart’s pumping or relaxing functions.
Heart failure may stem from untreated coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and other underlying conditions, which can impair the heart’s ability to pump or relax effectively.
Although heart failure can pose life-threatening risks, early intervention and treatment for heart-related ailments can help mitigate potential complications.
7. Mitral Valve Regurgitation
This occurrence arises when the mitral valve fails to close tightly enough, allowing blood to flow back into the heart. Consequently, blood circulation through the heart and body becomes less efficient, exerting pressure on the heart chambers. Over time, this strain can lead to heart enlargement and eventual heart failure.
8. Mitral Valve Prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse occurs when the flaps of the mitral valve fail to close properly, resulting in their bulging into the left atrium. This may lead to the detection of a heart murmur.
While mitral valve prolapse is typically not life-threatening, some individuals may require treatment. Genetic factors and connective tissue disorders are common causes of this condition, affecting approximately 2% of the population.
9. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
This condition typically arises from a genetic anomaly affecting the heart muscle, often inherited within families.
In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle walls thicken, leading to increased forcefulness in contractions. This affects the heart’s ability to effectively receive and pump out blood, potentially resulting in obstruction in some instances.
Symptoms may be absent, and diagnosis may elude many individuals, yet hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can deteriorate over time, giving rise to various cardiac complications.
Individuals with a family history of this condition are advised to seek screening, as early treatment can help forestall complications. According to the AHA, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy stands as the primary cause of cardiac-related mortality among individuals under 35 years old, including athletes.
10. Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis occurs when the pulmonary valve becomes thickened or fused, impairing its ability to open properly. This hampers the heart’s ability to efficiently pump blood from the left ventricle into the aorta.
The condition may be present at birth due to congenital valve abnormalities, or it may develop gradually over time due to the accumulation of calcium deposits or scarring.
Related: The Human Heart | Anatomy and Function
Symptoms of Heart Disease
Symptoms of heart disease vary depending on the particular type of condition an individual may have, and some heart conditions may present with no symptoms at all.
However, the following signs may suggest the presence of a heart problem:
- Shortness of breath
- Angina, characterized by chest pain
- Swelling caused by fluid retention, known as edema
- Fatigue and dizziness
- In children, symptoms of a congenital heart defect may include cyanosis, indicated by a bluish tint to the skin, and limitations in exercise capacity.
Causes and Risk Factors
The World Health Organization (WHO) underscores poverty and stress as crucial contributors to the rising prevalence of heart and cardiovascular diseases worldwide.
Heart disease can arise due to several other factors including:
- Damage to all or part of the heart
- A problem with the blood vessels leading to or from the heart
- Reduced supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart
- Irregularities in the heart’s rhythm
While genetic factors may play a role in some cases, lifestyle choices and medical conditions can significantly elevate the risk. These include:
- Advanced age
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels)
- Sleep apnea
- High stress and anxiety levels
- Tobacco use (smoking)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Overweight or obesity
- Diabetes mellitus
- Family history of heart disease
- Dietary patterns
- History of preeclampsia during pregnancy
- Sedentary lifestyle
Management
Treatment options for heart disease vary depending on the specific type of condition, but commonly include lifestyle modifications, medication therapy, and surgical interventions. Individuals should collaborate with their healthcare provider to identify the most appropriate medication regimen. Occasionally, medication side effects may necessitate adjustments to the treatment plan.