Heart diseases list
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Comprehensive List of Heart Diseases
Heart diseases encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These diseases are a leading cause of mortality worldwide, impacting millions of lives each year. Below is a detailed overview of the most common heart diseases, their characteristics, and their impact on human health.
Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)
Overview of Coronary Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease, also known as ischemic heart disease, is the most prevalent type of heart disease. It occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque) . This can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and other serious complications.
Acute Coronary Syndrome and Angina Pectoris
Acute coronary syndrome is an umbrella term for situations where the blood supplied to the heart muscle is suddenly blocked. Angina pectoris, a symptom of CHD, is characterized by chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart .
Heart Failure
Understanding Heart Failure
Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently to meet the body's needs. This can result from various conditions, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and cardiomyopathy .
Stroke (Cerebrovascular Disease)
Types and Impact of Stroke
Stroke is a condition where the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic (caused by blockages) and hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding) . Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
The Role of Hypertension in Heart Disease
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. It occurs when the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, which can damage the heart and blood vessels over time .
Congenital Heart Defects
Types of Congenital Heart Defects
Congenital heart defects are structural problems with the heart that are present at birth. These defects can affect the heart's walls, valves, or blood vessels and can range from simple issues to complex conditions requiring surgery .
Cardiomyopathy
Understanding Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle, where the heart muscle becomes enlarged, thick, or rigid. This can lead to heart failure or arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Impact of Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease is a common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. This condition is often a sign of widespread atherosclerosis and can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Infectious Heart Diseases
Neglected Tropical Diseases and Other Infections
Certain infectious diseases, including neglected tropical diseases, can affect the heart. These infections can lead to conditions such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and endocarditis (infection of the heart valves).
Conclusion
Heart diseases are diverse and can have severe impacts on health and quality of life. Understanding the various types of heart diseases, their causes, and their symptoms is crucial for early detection and effective management. By addressing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and lifestyle choices, individuals can reduce their risk of developing heart disease and improve their overall heart health.
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