Cardio Vascular Disease

Heart Disease Overview and Facts

Heart disease is a serious condition that blocks the flow of blood to the heart and can lead to a heart attack. The most common cause of death in the United States is heart disease. An astounding 25 percent of all deaths occurring in the United States each year can be linked to heart disease.

Heart disease is really a group of conditions that can occur when there is a blockage in the heart or the flow of blood to the heart has been restricted in some way. The conditions that can result include:

Heart attack

Heart failure

Coronary artery disease

Congenital heart disease

Vascular disease

Heart valve disease

While these conditions are serious, it is possible for a person with heart disease to control the risk of serious complications or death related to heart disease by leading a healthy lifestyle.

Heart Disease Signs and Symptoms

It is possible for a person with heart disease to have no apparent signs or symptoms linked to the disease. People without signs and symptoms are often unaware that they have developed heart disease until a serious health event related to the disease occurs. The inability of some people to recognize that they have heart disease makes it important for those at risk to become aware of the signs and symptoms listed below.

Angina

Pain in the chest may be due to a symptom of heart disease that is known as angina. Anyone experiencing a tightness or pain in the chest on a regular basis should seek the advice of a medical professional.

Shortness of Breath

Heart disease impacts the body's ability to circulate blood throughout the body. It is possible for there to be a buildup of fluid in the lungs when there is a restriction to the circulation of blood in the body. This fluid will make it difficult for a person to breath. Other symptoms related to heart disease vary depending on the specific ailment that develops as a result of the disease. For example, signs of a heart attack include nausea, vomiting, arm discomfort, cold sweats or fatigue in addition to the symptoms mentioned above. Heart failure has symptoms that include fatigue and swelling in the legs or feet.

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