Heart disease

Discover the different types of heart disease, including congenital heart disease and coronary heart disease, as well as common symptoms.

Introduction

Heart disease is a catchall term that’s used to describe a wide range of heart-related conditions. Here, you'll learn about the many different types and symptoms of heart disease.

Maybe you or someone you love has been diagnosed with congenital heart disease. Or perhaps you've come here looking for more information on ischemic heart disease, also known as coronary heart disease or coronary artery disease.

Learn the facts about a variety of topics related to heart disease, from heart rhythm disorders and congenital defects, to heart valve problems and other concerns.

If you have any form of heart disease, worry you might be at risk, or need help understanding your symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider (HCP) as soon as possible so you can get the help you need.

If you suspect you or a loved one is having a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

Causes of heart disease

There are so many types of heart disease and therefore many potential causes. Are some types of heart disease linked to lifestyle choices? Are others hereditary? Could some be caused by bacteria or viruses? To understand the root cause of the specific type of heart disease you may have, talk to your HCP.

Symptoms of heart disease

Middle-aged man measuring his blood pressure with an at-home blood pressure machine.

Is dizziness a symptom of heart disease? What about sweating, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, or tooth loss? Because the symptoms of heart disease vary widely based on the type of heart issue, there's no one-size-fits-all list of symptoms. Talk to your HCP about all of your symptoms and work with them to get to the bottom of the issue. Read on for more information about some of the symptoms related to specific heart conditions.

Diagnosing heart disease

Along with a physical exam and gathering information about your personal and family medical history, your HCP may order a number of tests to help diagnose your condition. Will you need blood tests, chest X-rays, or stress tests? How about an MRI, CT scan, or another type of imaging test? See what might happen as your HCP tries to understand how your heart is functioning.

Treatment for heart disease

Grandfather playing basketball with his grandchild.

Depending on the type of heart disease you have, your HCP may prescribe medications, recommend lifestyle changes, or suggest surgery or other medical procedures. Could you need a combination of therapies? Read more about some of the possible treatments for heart disease.

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