4 Common Heart Conditions and Symptoms

New Delhi, June 08, 2019: The term “heart disease” encompasses a range of conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart rhythm problems, and congenital heart defects, among many others. Heart disease can be genetic or environmental in origin. According to the CDC, the leading cause of death in the United States in 2017 was heart disease. With concerns over diet and other environmental factors, heart disease will likely continue to top the charts in that country and others in years to come. Below are four of the most common heart conditions and their associated symptoms.

Arrhythmia or Irregular Heartbeat

The Mayo Clinic defines an irregular heartbeat, clinically known as arrhythmia, as a problem with the rhythm of the heart that occurs when electrical impulses that determine your heartbeat rate don’t function properly. Atrial fibrillation (also known as AFib) is a type of arrhythmia that affects the upper chambers of the heart. When the heart’s atria don’t beat normally, blood flow into the ventricles is impeded.

The most common symptom for arrhythmia is a racing heartbeat. In many cases, this is harmless, but in others, it can be life-threatening. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or fainting.

Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve disease can lead to heart failure if untreated. This disease occurs when one or more of the valves in your heart don’t work properly. Symptoms of heart valve disease include shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, discomfort in the chest, or an irregular heartbeat.

These symptoms aren’t necessarily good indicators of the seriousness of the disease. Heart failure as a result of heart valve disease can occur with little to no warning. Heart failure of this type may produce symptoms such as swelling of the ankles and feet, swelling of the abdomen, or rapid weight gain.

Congenital Heart Defects

This heart condition is present at birth, but may not be diagnosed until adulthood. It’s certainly possible to have a heart defect with no signs of a problem, but some common symptoms include shortness of breath, limited stamina or energy, abnormal swelling, dizziness, and chest pain. Children experiencing signs of a congenital heart defect may have a bluish tint to their skin, fingernails or lips; rapid breathing; poor feeding; slow weight gain; and frequent lung infections.

Pericarditis Disease and Symptoms

Pericarditis is a heart condition that results in swelling and irritation of the thin membrane surrounding the heart, called the pericardium. When these irritated layers of the pericardium rub against each other, patients may experience chest pain or discomfort. Additional symptoms, such as shortness of breath, heart palpitations, fever, cough, or swelling, may come and go quickly.

The heart is strong and resilient, but it can develop problems like any other organ in the body. It’s important to take care of your heart and report any strange feelings or symptoms to your doctor. With proper care and periodic visits to a physician, even those with heart conditions can live happy and productive lives.

Corporate Comm India(CCI Newswire)