Heart disease is among the most serious health problems in the world today. Early diagnosis and informed action are key, because Many of these conditions develop gradually and do not produce obvious symptoms for a long time. If left untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke and circulatory failure, significantly reducing quality and length of life. In this article, we will discuss the most common cardiac diseases, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
In this article:
- Cardiovascular diseases - types
- Heart diseases - unusual symptoms
- Heart diseases - diagnostic methods
- Heart disease and lifestyle - how to reduce the risk?
- Summary
Cardiovascular diseases - types
Cardiovascular diseases are a group of conditions related to the cardiovascular system. When it comes to Heart disease, types include both cardiac and vascular dysfunction. They are most often chronic in nature, and their development is associated with an abnormal lifestyle, aging and genetic factors. Some of the most common causes of their occurrence include:
- hypertension;
- high cholesterol;
- smoking;
- lack of physical activity;
- diabetes;
- chronic stress.
Modern medicine distinguishes many forms of cardiovascular diseases, the most common of which are ischemic heart disease, heart failure and cardiac arrhythmias. They differ in causes, symptoms and treatments, but all affect quality of life and require specialized medical care.
Ischemic heart disease (coronary artery disease)
Ischemic heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, is the most common disease. Its development is usually slow and can remain asymptomatic for a long time. Coronary atherosclerosis is considered the main cause, which supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients. Restricted blood flow to the heart muscle results in hypoxia, which can lead to irreversible damage. Basic information:
- symptoms - Chest pain (angina), often radiating to the neck, shoulders or back, shortness of breath, palpitations, in an advanced stage - heart attack.
- prognosis - Myocardial infarction ends in death in about 25% patients, highlighting the importance of prevention and early diagnosis;
- diagnostics - Includes ECG, stress tests, heart echo, coronary angiography;
- treatment - pharmacological treatments (e.g. statins, beta-blockers, anticoagulants), lifestyle changes (diet, physical activity, stress elimination), invasive procedures (angioplasty, stent implantation, and in some cases by-passes).
Heart failure
Heart failure is a serious disease entity in which the heart muscle is unable to pump blood with adequate efficiency, leading to tissue hypoxia and organ dysfunction. This type of heart disease usually develops as a consequence of other conditions of the cardiovascular system and requires ongoing, comprehensive treatment. Key information on heart failure:
- reasons - A history of myocardial infarction, hypertension, valvular defects, myocarditis, cardiomyopathies (structural damage to the heart muscle);
- symptoms - Chronic shortness of breath (especially on exertion or when lying down), rapid fatigue, swelling of the lower extremities, frequent nocturnal urination, in advanced cases - cardiac arrhythmia and deterioration of kidney function;
- diagnostics - Echocardiography (evaluation of heart rate and ejection fraction), laboratory tests (e.g., BNP determination), evaluation of cardiovascular and renal function;
- treatment - Pharmacotherapy (diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, aldosterone antagonists), in selected cases - implantation of cardiac assist devices (pacemaker, cardioverter-defibrillator), rehabilitation and lifestyle changes (weight control, sodium restriction, physical activity under the supervision of a specialist).
Heart rhythm disturbances
Cardiac arrhythmias, or arrhythmias, are a complex group of conditions in which there are abnormalities in the conduction of electrical impulses responsible for the heart's rhythm. This type of heart disease can manifest as a heartbeat that is too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia) or a complete irregularity of rhythm, as in the case of atrial fibrillation. Key information on arrhythmias:
- types of heart rhythm disorders - Tachycardia (accelerated heartbeat), bradycardia (slowed heart rate), atrial fibrillation (irregular and uncoordinated atrial work);
- symptoms - A feeling of palpitations, dizziness, weakness, occasionally - fainting or loss of consciousness;
- complications - formation of thrombus in the heart, increased risk of stroke, sudden cardiac arrest (in severe cases);
- diagnostics - Electrocardiogram (ECG), Holter test - 24-hour or longer monitoring of heart rate, electrophysiology tests - precise evaluation of impulse conduction pathways;
- treatment - Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., beta-blockers, amiodarone), electrical cardioversion - restoration of sinus rhythm, ablation - surgical removal of the focus of arrhythmia, implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator - in case of risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Heart diseases - unusual symptoms
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and early recognition is key to effective treatment and prevention of complications. The symptoms of these conditions can vary widely - ranging from the classic, easy to recognize, to the atypical, often confused with other ailments. Not all heart diseases manifest themselves in the classic manner. Especially in women, the elderly and diabetics, symptoms can be subtle and easy to miss. Unusual symptoms include:
- pain in the jaw, shoulder or arm - Can be confused with dental or muscular ailments;
- stomach discomfort - a feeling of indigestion, nausea or vomiting, which can mimic gastrointestinal problems, and in fact be a sign of myocardial ischemia;
- flu-like symptoms - such as fatigue, muscle aches or slight fever, may accompany myocarditis or indicate acute coronary syndrome;
- problems with concentration and feelings of confusion - especially in the elderly, can signal reduced blood flow to the brain;
- Decrease in appetite and sudden fatigue after minor exertion - often seen in women with ischemic heart disease, whose symptoms are less specific than in men.
Heart diseases - diagnostic methods
Early and accurate diagnosis of heart disease is crucial for effective treatment. Modern medicine offers a range of tests to help determine the type of condition and its severity. Among the most commonly used methods are:
- electrocardiography (ECG) - A basic, non-invasive test that evaluates the electrical activity of the heart. It allows detection of arrhythmias, ischemia or myocardial infarction;
- echocardiography - An ultrasound examination of the heart to assess the function of the heart muscle, valves and the presence of pericardial fluid. It is very helpful in diagnosing heart failure and valvular defects;
- stress test - A test performed on a treadmill or stationary bicycle under ECG guidance that assesses the heart's response to exercise and can detect ischemic heart disease;
- Holter test - 24- or 48-hour heart rhythm monitoring using a portable ECG. It is used to detect rhythm abnormalities not visible on a standard ECG;
- coronarography - An invasive test that images the coronary arteries using contrast and X-rays. It allows accurate assessment of narrowing and blockages that can lead to heart attack.
The selection of appropriate diagnostic methods depends on the patient's symptoms, age, medical history and the results of preliminary tests. With advanced diagnostics, it is possible to detect cardiovascular diseases early and apply effective treatment that Can significantly improve the quality and length of a patient's life. Properly selected tests can accurately determine the types of heart disease present in a patient.
Heart disease and lifestyle - how to reduce the risk?
While not all cardiovascular diseases are within our control, many can be effectively reduced through changes in daily habits. Prevention should be implemented already in young people - especially in families with a history of cardiovascular problems. Prevention recommendations:
- A balanced diet low in saturated fat and salt;
- Regular physical activity;
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption;
- Cholesterol and glucose control;
- coping with stress;
- systematic check-ups.
Conscious support after cardiac incidents is also not insignificant. Therefore, cardiac rehabilitation plays a key role in recovery and improving quality of life.
Summary
Heart diseases are a complex group of conditions, including failure, arrhythmias or ischemic disease, which often develop asymptomatically and require specialized diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and implementation of therapy significantly improve prognosis. Take advantage of the knowledge and experience of Neuroport - Neurological and Orthopedic Rehabilitation Center to take care of heart health comprehensively and professionally.
