Different types of heart disease

By Ashley Bramble BS, MS, HFS Be Healthy

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing more than 370,000 people here each year.¹

So let’s get to know this enemy. Heart disease refers to any condition or disease relating to the heart.² And when it comes to the heart, many problems can occur. These include:

Coronary artery disease
Arrhythmias
Heart failure
Congenital heart defects
Cardiomyopathy
Heart valve problems

For many people, the first signs of heart disease are chest discomfort and/or a heart attack. But signs and symptoms can vary depending on the type of heart disease. Below we will learn more about each type.

Coronary artery disease

The most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease, affecting more than 16 million Americans³ and killing more than 370,000 people each year.⁴ Coronary artery disease is caused by a buildup of cholesterol and fatty deposits called plaque in the arteries. This plaque makes the arteries more rigid and narrow, restricting blood flow and oxygen to the heart.³ Since plaque accumulates over time, many do not experience symptoms until a significant event such as chest pain or a heart attack.

The following symptoms can be a sign of those conditions:

Angina – chest discomfort, pressure, tightness, or pain
Shortness of breath
Palpitations
Faster heartbeat
Irregular heartbeat
Nausea/vomiting
Sweating
Dizziness
Weakness/fatigue

If you do experience the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away! Without treatment, coronary artery disease can weaken the heart and contribute to additional heart problems over time.

Arrhythmias

Heart arrhythmias are an abnormal rhythm or rate of the heartbeat.² This condition can cause extra or skipped heartbeats that interrupt the normal heart rhythm.

Symptoms of arrhythmias include:

Fluttering or pounding in the chest
Racing heartbeat
Slow heartbeat
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Feeling faint or light-headed

Some can pass quickly and be harmless, but others can cause significant damage. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Atrial fibrillation

This type of arrhythmia causes poor blood flow in the body, which could increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and additional complications.¹ Symptoms may vary between individuals — some people may experience no symptoms, while others feel them immediately.⁶ These symptoms include:

Difficulty breathing
Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint
Palpitations
Weakness
Chest discomfort or pain
Lack of energy

If you or a loved one has experienced symptoms, talk to your doctor to get the right treatment and lower your risk.

Heart failure

Heart failure occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood around the body efficiently (WebMD). Symptoms may not be related to the severity of the disease.

Symptoms include:

Shortness of breath during activity or rest
Cough
Rapid weight gain
Swelling in legs, ankles, and abdomen
Confusion or impaired thinking
Dizziness
Fatigue
Rapid heart rate and/or palpitations
Chest pain
Nausea

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. He or she can help you find the right treatment, so you can manage this condition and live a healthy life.

Congenital heart defects

Congenital heart defects can be diagnosed before birth, immediately after birth, during childhood, or even in adulthood. It is possible to experience no symptoms at all. If adults do have a heart defect, symptoms may include:

Shortness of breath
Limited ability to exercise
Symptoms similar to heart failure

Talk to your doctor if experience any of these symptoms.

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. It becomes enlarged and/or rigid, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood. Many people experience no symptoms, but these can develop and worsen over time and lead to further heart complications.⁵

Symptoms include:

Chest pain or pressure, especially after activity
Heart failure symptoms
Swelling of lower extremities
Fatigue
Fainting
Palpitations

Some patients may have no signs and symptoms with no need for treatment, but others can develop quickly with severe symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you do experience these symptoms to help you control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Heart valve problems

There are four valves in the heart that ensure blood does not flow backward. When a valve is damaged, it may not open or close fully, letting blood flow backward. The heart then has to work harder to pump blood out. Symptoms include:

Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing
Swelling
Chest pain
Low or high blood pressure
Abdominal pain
Weakness
Dizziness
Palpitations, including rapid heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, skipped beats, or fluttering

People with severe symptoms may only have a minor case. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.⁵

There are many different forms of heart disease, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment. By recognizing these symptoms and talking with your doctor, you can receive the correct diagnosis and proper treatment to live a long and healthy life.

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