The heart acts as a powerful pump, responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to every cell.

Blood flows through a complex network of blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries, to transport oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

In the lungs, blood releases carbon dioxide and absorbs fresh oxygen, which is then carried to the body’s tissues to fuel essential functions.

Buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply the heart with blood and oxygen, leading to chest pain, heart attack, and other complications.

Irregular heartbeats, including atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, and tachycardia, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and other symptoms.

Weakening of the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, resulting in fluid buildup, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.

Conditions affecting the heart’s valves, such as stenosis or regurgitation, which can impair blood flow and cause various complications.

Hypertension can be caused by factors like genetics, obesity, stress, poor diet, and lack of exercise.

If lifestyle changes are not enough, various antihypertensive drugs can help lower blood pressure.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and stress management can help manage hypertension.

Routine blood pressure checks and ongoing management under a doctor’s supervision are critical.

Coronary artery disease occurs when the major blood vessels that supply the heart become damaged or diseased, often due to a buildup of cholesterol-containing plaques.

The primary risk factors for coronary artery disease include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and family history of heart disease.

Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, weight management, and stress reduction can significantly lower the risk of developing coronary artery disease.

Chest pain, shortness of breath, and cold sweats are common signs of a heart attack. Paying attention to these warning signs is crucial for prompt medical attention.

Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and blood tests can help diagnose a heart attack by detecting changes in the heart’s electrical activity and the presence of cardiac enzymes.

Immediate treatment aims to restore blood flow to the affected part of the heart, often through medications or procedures like angioplasty and stenting.

After the initial treatment, cardiac rehabilitation, lifestyle changes, and long-term medication can help prevent future heart attacks and improve overall heart health.

Arrhythmias can involve abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and bradycardia. Each type requires tailored diagnostic and treatment approaches.

Procedures like cardioversion, ablation, and pacemaker implantation may be recommended for severe or persistent arrhythmias that don’t respond to medication.

Antiarrhythmic drugs can help regulate the heart’s electrical impulses and restore normal rhythm. Careful monitoring and adjustments are crucial to manage side effects.

Reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise can help prevent or manage certain types of arrhythmias.

The heart has four main valves that regulate blood flow. Understanding their complex structure is crucial for diagnosing and treating valvular diseases.

Advanced imaging techniques like echocardiography allow for precise evaluation of valve function and identification of any structural abnormalities.

For severe valve disorders, surgical procedures such as valve repair or replacement may be necessary to restore proper blood flow and cardiac function.

Cardiac rehab helps strengthen the heart muscle and improve cardiovascular fitness, lowering the risk of future heart events.

Resistance training and other exercises in cardiac rehab help rebuild muscle strength and endurance.

The program includes exercises to boost lung capacity and efficiency, making it easier to breathe and perform daily activities.

The program provides support and education to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common after a cardiac event.