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Learn about the heart and how it works.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation occurs when disorganized electrical signals cause the atria, the two upper chambers of the heart, to contract very rapidly and irregularly. People with atrial fibrillation may not feel symptoms though it can cause chest pain or heart failure. Treatment often involves the use of blood thinners, such as heparin and coumadin, to prevent the formation of blood clots that can increase the risk of stroke.
Coronary Angiography and Angioplasty
Coronary angiography is a test that shows blockage in the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. A long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter is put into a blood vessel in the arm, groin, or neck and then inserted into the coronary arteries. Once the catheter is in place, a dye is injected into the bloodstream and x-rays are taken while the dye is flowing. The x-rays show areas of obstruction (atherosclerosis).
The test is performed in a specialized "cath lab" on people with signs of coronary heart disease, or on an emergency basis if a heart attack is suspected.
Coronary angioplasty may also be performed to open any blocked arteries. A specialized balloon-tip catheter is threaded into the coronary artery. Once in place, a tiny balloon is inflated to push away any blockage. A stent may be place during the procedure to help keep the coronary artery open.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when a fatty material called plaque builds up on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. The blockage prevents the heart muscle from receiving enough oxygen-rich blood, resulting in angina (chest pain), irregular heartbeats, and heart attacks (myocardial infarction). There are a variety of treatment options available for coronary artery disease, including statins, angioplasty, stents and coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG).
Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram (EKG, or ECG) is a simple, painless test that records the heart's electrical activity. It is recommended for people that have signs or symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain or trouble breathing. A Holter monitor is a portable electrocardiogram that may be worn for prolonged periods to record heart activity during activities.
Heart Arrhythmia
Any heart condition that result in changes to the heartbeat is called a heart arrhythmia. The heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. A heartbeat that is too fast is called tachycardia. Atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) are common types of tachycardias. A heartbeat that is too slow is called bradycardia.
The type of arrhythmia is usually diagnosed with an electrocardiogram. Some types of heart arrhythmias respond to medications or cardioversion. A pacemaker may be required to provide long-term control of some heart rhythm problems.
Heart Failure
Heart failure (CHF) occurs when the heart muscle cannot pump enough blood out to the body. Heart failure can also result from chronic high blood pressure, previous heart attacks, heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), heart valve disorders, or congenital heart disorders. The recommended treatment depends on the cause, the severity, and other factors. Lifestyle changes may be necessary to protect the heart from overworking and medications, such as diuretics and digoxin may helpful in select cases. In severe cases, a heart pump or heart transplant may be recommended.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure is a common medical condition that increases a person's risk for developing heart disease, kidney disease and having a stroke. There are a variety of treatment options for high blood pressure, including lifestyle and dietary changes and anti-hypertensive medications, such diuretics ("water pills"), beta blockers, and ACE inhibitors. Your doctor will recommend a treatment based on the severity of your hypertension, its duration, and presence of other medical conditions, such as diabetes.
High Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolemia)
High cholesterol levels in your blood increase your chance of developing heart disease. Cholesterol levels, including total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and VLDL, are measured with a simple blood test. Healthy cholesterol levels are defined by several factors, including the ratios of these different types of cholesterol. Treatment options include dietary and lifestyle changes and cholesterol medications, such as statins, nicotinic acid, and fibrates.
Myocardial Infarction (MI)
Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly called a "heart attack", occurs when blood flow to a section of heart muscle becomes blocked. If the flow of blood isn't restored quickly, the section of heart muscle becomes damaged from lack of oxygen and begins to die. There are treatments available for heart attacks that can save lives and prevent disabilities. These are most effective when started within 1 hour. If you think you or someone you're with is having a heart attack, call 9–1–1 right away. You can take steps to reduce your risk of developing a heart attack, such as keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control and to stop smoking.
Statins
Statins are a class of medications prescribed to lower blood cholesterol levels. Brand names include Crestor, Lipitor, Vytorin, and Zocor. Statins are prescribed for people at risk of developing coronary artery disease due to high levels of cholesterol, or other risk factors.
Stroke
Stroke, also called a "brain attack" occurs, when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain is either blocked by a clot, or bursts. The nerve cells in that part of the brain stop functioning normal. The symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected. Symptoms of a stroke include:
- Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
If you suspect you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms indicative of a stroke, do not wait. Call 911 emergency immediately. There are now effective therapies for stroke that must be administered at a hospital, but they lose their effectiveness if not given within the first 3 hours after stroke symptoms appear. Every minute counts!
Additional Heart Health Topics
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