Heart disease refers to any condition affecting the heart. There are many types, some of which are preventable. It referes to any condition affecting the cardiovascular system.
There are several different types of heart disease, and they affect the heart and blood vessels in different ways.
- Coronary artery disease
- Congenital heart defects
- Arrhythmia
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Myocardial infarction
- Heart failure. etc.
Symptoms
The symptoms of heart disease depend on the specific type a person has. Also, some heart conditions cause no symptoms at all.
That said, the following symptoms may indicate a heart problem:
- angina, or chest pain
- difficulty breathing
- fatigue and lightheadedness
- swelling due to fluid retention, or edema
In children, the symptoms of a congenital heart defect may include cyanosis, or a blue tinge to the skin, and an inability to exercise.
Some signs and symptoms that could indicate heart attack include:
- chest pain
- breathlessness
- heart palpitations
- nausea
- stomach pain
- sweating
- arm, jaw, back, or leg pain
- a choking sensation
- swollen ankles
- fatigue
- an irregular heartbeat
Heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, which is when the heart stops and the body can no longer function. A person needs immediate medical attention if they have any symptoms of a heart attack.