Fox News reports the cost in the United States for cardiovascular disease and stroke at $503.2 billion in 2010. Of all the types of diseases, heart disease remains at the top for cause of death in the United States. Heart disease includes heart attacks, rhythm irregularities, valve disorders, infections and injury.
Atrial Fibrillation
In a normal heartbeat, the heart's electrical system originates in the right atrium or upper portion of the heart. The signal travels from the top of the heart to the bottom, forcing the lower part of the heart to contract and pump out the blood for distribution in the lungs and the rest of the body. When atrial fibrillation occurs, the electrical signal does not originate in the right atrium, and the upper and lower chambers do not work in symmetry. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports atrial fibrillation as the most common problem with the rate or rhythm of the heart. Heart rhythm abnormalities associated with atrial fibrillation include a rapid and irregular heart contraction that poses the threat of heart failure and chest pain. Treatment options include medications to regulate the heart rhythm and surgical intervention.
Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when the heart can no longer pump efficiently to provide the body with adequate blood supply. Causes of CHF, as reported by the American Heart Association, include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, scar tissue from a previous heart attack, heart valve disease and infection in the heart. Symptoms indicating the heart is not working efficiently include leg and ankle swelling and/or fluid in the lungs. Treatment consists of medications to expand the blood vessels, increase the effectiveness of the pumping action and eliminate excess water from the body. If there is a known cause, such as high blood pressure, treatment includes measures to control or eliminate the underlying cause.
Endocarditis
Endocarditis, as reported by the National Institutes of Health, is inflammation of the heart valves, muscle or lining of the heart. The bacterial infection usually requires hospitalization for immediate intravenous antibiotic treatment. Following discharge from the hospital, expect a course of antibiotics for as long as six weeks. A blood culture and sensitivity lab test at admission will determine the most effective antibiotic therapy. Symptoms of endocarditis include shortness of breath, fever, chills and excessive sweating. Possible complications of endocarditis include heart rhythm irregularities, heart valve damage, congestive heart failure, stroke and death. Early treatment provides the best opportunity for a good prognosis.
