Heart Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One in every four deaths in the U.S. is due to heart disease, accounting for approximately 610,000 deaths annually.
Heart disease does not discriminate—it affects various populations, including White, Hispanic, and Black communities. Nearly half of Americans are at risk for heart disease, and the numbers are rising. Early lifestyle changes can help reduce these risks and promote a longer, healthier life.
Types of Heart Disease
Heart disease is a broad term that covers various cardiovascular conditions, including:
- Arrhythmia: Abnormal heart rhythms.
- Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries.
- Cardiomyopathy: Weakening or hardening of the heart muscle.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Irregular heart conditions present at birth.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Plaque buildup in the heart’s arteries, sometimes called ischemic heart disease.
- Heart Infections: Caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Cardiovascular disorders may also refer to conditions affecting the heart’s blood vessels.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
The symptoms of heart disease vary depending on the type of condition:
Arrhythmias (Abnormal Heart Rhythms)
- Lightheadedness
- Fluttering or racing heartbeat
- Slow pulse
- Fainting spells
- Chest pain
Atherosclerosis
- Coldness or numbness in the limbs
- Weakness in arms or legs
- Unusual pain
Congenital Heart Defects
- Blue-tinged skin
- Swelling in extremities
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue or low energy
- Irregular heartbeat
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Pressure or squeezing in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Indigestion-like pain
Cardiomyopathy
- Fatigue
- Swollen legs, ankles, or feet
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid or pounding heartbeat
Heart Infections
- Fever
- Chills
- Skin rash
- Chest pain
- Congestion or coughing
Symptoms of Heart Disease in Women
Women often experience different symptoms than men, particularly with CAD and other cardiovascular diseases.
A 2003 study found that women commonly report non-classic symptoms, such as:
- Anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Unexplained fatigue
Women may also experience:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Jaw, neck, or back pain
- Cold sweats
Causes of Heart Disease
Each type of heart disease has unique causes:
Arrhythmia
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- CAD
- Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Stress or anxiety
Congenital Heart Defects
- Develop during fetal growth and may remain undiagnosed for years.
Cardiomyopathy
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Often caused by infections, drug use, or prior heart attacks.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Typically inherited.
- Restrictive Cardiomyopathy: May result from connective tissue or protein buildup.
Heart Infections
- Bacteria, parasites, or viruses are common causes.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing heart disease:
Controllable Risk Factors
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol or low HDL (“good” cholesterol)
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
Uncontrollable Risk Factors
- Family history
- Ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White, Asian, and Pacific Islander groups are at higher risk)
- Age (risk increases for men after 55 and for women after 65)
Diagnosing Heart Disease
Diagnosis begins with a physical exam and a review of symptoms and medical history. Blood tests are often used to measure cholesterol levels and detect signs of inflammation. Early diagnosis can significantly impact the management and treatment of heart disease.
Conclusion
Heart disease remains a major health concern, but it is often preventable with early lifestyle changes. Understanding the types, symptoms, and risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps toward maintaining heart health. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are crucial for early detection and management.