According to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center--a nonprofit academic medical center in Los Angeles, California--heart conditions may result from structural disorders, disorders of the heart's electrical signals, cardiac muscle problems or blood flow-related problems. Some heart conditions require surgery to prevent or correct problems, while others may be treated using diet, exercise and lifestyle changes.
Coronary Artery Disease
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), a division of the National Institutes of Health, says coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease, involves plaque formation inside the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries deliver oxygenated blood to the heart. If a sufficient amount of plaque accumulates inside the coronary arteries, blood flow to the heart will be reduced. With plaque accumulation, there's also a greater likelihood that clots will form in the arteries, and clots may partially or fully block circulation to the heart. NHLBI notes that CAD is the most common type of heart disease, and is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States for both men and women. CAD can be prevented or treated in most people using the following therapies: lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise and stress reduction; pharmacological or natural medicines; or medical procedures.
Angina
According to the Mayo Clinic, angina, also called angina pectoris, is a type of chest pain or discomfort associated with decreased circulation to the heart, and is a symptom of CAD. The lack of oxygenated blood to the heart typically results in chest pain. The Mayo Clinic states that, along with pain, common sensations associated with angina include squeezing, pressure, heaviness and tightness. Many patients report that, during angina attacks, it feels as though somebody is standing on their chest. Angina may be stable or unstable. Stable angina refers to chest pain that reliably manifests during exertion, whereas unstable angina involves the sudden onset of chest pain or an alteration in the person's familiar experience of chest pain. Unstable angina may be a sign a heart attack is about to occur. Angina, although relatively common, may be confused with other health issues, such as indigestion. It's prudent to seek medical assistance if unexplained chest pain develops.
Congenital Heart Disease
According to the Congenital Heart Information Network (CHIN)--a national organization providing information, support services, financial assistance and resources to those with congenital heart defects--congenital heart disease commonly involves atrial septal defects. Atrial septal defects occur when the left and right atria of the heart communicate via a hole between the two chambers. In most hearts, these chambers are self-contained. CHIN states that, of all the congenital abnormalities of the heart, simple atrial septal defects were among the first to be treated successfully with surgery. Common types of atrial septal defects include secundum atrial septal defect, primum atrial septal defect and sinus venosus atrial septal defect. CHIN says secundum atrial septal defect is the most common atrial septal defect, representing about 80 percent of all cases.
