Heart disease includes a range of conditions that affect how the heart works. While many people think of heart attacks when they hear the term, heart disease also includes arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle), congenital heart defects (present at birth), and problems with the heart valves.¹ Heart failure is another serious condition where the heart becomes too weak or stiff to pump blood the way it should.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for both men and women in the United States.^² A person’s risk depends on a mix of factors: some they can’t control, like age, sex, or family history, and others they can. By making heart-healthy choices, such as eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, managing stress, and keeping conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes under control, they can greatly lower their risk.^³

Types of heart disease

Heart disease can come in various forms, with each type affecting the heart differently. Types of heart disease can include:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): The most common type of heart disease,¹ CAD, refers to plaque buildup in the arteries, also known as atherosclerosis. This causes the arteries to become narrowed or blocked and can lead to chest pain or heart attacks. Risk factors for CAD include high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity.
• Heart Valve Disease: Damage to one or more of the heart’s valves can disrupt the normal flow of blood through the heart, which may cause the heart to work harder. In some cases, heart valve disease can be mild and cause few symptoms, but more serious cases may require medication or surgery to repair or replace the damaged valve.
• Heart Failure: A condition where the heart doesn’t pump blood effectively, often accumulating fluid in the lungs or other parts of the body.
• Arrhythmia: An arrhythmia refers to irregular heartbeats—either too fast, too slow, or erratic—which can make the heart less efficient at pumping blood. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others may increase the risk of complications like stroke or sudden cardiac arrest.
• Congenital Heart Disease: These are structural heart defects you’re born with which can affect the heart’s function. Some congenital heart defects are detected and treated in infancy or childhood, while others may not be discovered until later. Treatment can range from monitoring the condition over time to medications or surgery to correct the problem and help the heart work more efficiently.
• Cardiomyopathy: A condition that makes the heart muscle weak, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Over time, this can lead to heart failure or irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

Signs and symptoms of heart disease

While symptoms may vary depending on the specific condition, common signs to look for include:¹

• Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue and weakness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of feet, ankles, or legs
• Pain or numbness in legs or arms

Heart disease is easier to manage if caught early, so it’s essential to keep regular health checkups with your doctor. Routine screenings such as blood pressure checks and cholesterol tests can identify risks before they become more severe health issues.

When to see the doctor for heart disease

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical care right away:

• Sudden, intense chest pain or pressure
• Pain or discomfort spreading to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath, especially if it occurs suddenly or unrelated to physical activity
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat accompanied by discomfort, weakness, or dizziness
• Severe fatigue or weakness, mainly if these symptoms are unusual for you
• Rapid or severe swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen

It’s essential to call 911 or seek immediate medical help if symptoms are severe or sudden. It could be life-saving.

Find a heart disease doctor near me today to discuss strategies to help prevent heart disease or stop it from worsening.

Frequently asked questions about heart disease

Want to learn more about heart disease?

• WellMed cardiac rehab page
• It’s never too late to help your heart
• Tips for maintaining a healthy heart
• The many causes of chest pains
• Keep your ticker ticking with cardiac rehab and fitness

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