Heart Disease

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), is a broad term encompassing various conditions that affect the heart's structure or function. It includes blood vessel diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and heart failure, where the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs. Common causes and risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, atherosclerosis (fatty buildup in arteries), high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity. Congenital heart defects, present at birth, are another form of heart disease. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, and rapid breathing. As the leading cause of death in the United States, heart disease can be prevented and managed through lifestyle modifications, medications, and medical interventions such as surgery. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing complications.

References: