What Are the Risks of Echocardiography? Transthoracic and fetal echocardiography (echo) have no risks. These tests are safe in adults, children, and infants. If you have a transesophageal echo (TEE), some risks are associated with the medicine given to help you relax. These include a bad reaction to the medicine, problems breathing, or nausea (feeling [...]
What To Expect After Echocardiography You usually can go back to your normal activities right after having echocardiography (echo). If you have a transesophageal echo (TEE), you may be watched for a few hours at the doctor’s office or hospital after the test. Your throat might be sore for a few hours after the test. [...]
What To Expect After Echocardiography You usually can go back to your normal activities right after having echocardiography (echo). If you have a transesophageal echo (TEE), you may be watched for a few hours at the doctor’s office or hospital after the test. Your throat might be sore for a few hours after the test. [...]
Other Names for Echocardiography Echo Surface echo Ultrasound of the heart What To Expect Before Echocardiography Echocardiography (echo) is done in a doctor’s office or a hospital. No special preparations are needed for most types of echo. Usually you can eat, drink, and take any medicines as you normally would. The exception is if you’re [...]
Types of Echocardiography There are several types of echocardiography (echo)—all use sound waves to create pictures of your heart. This is the same technology that allows doctors to see an unborn baby inside a pregnant woman. Unlike x rays and some other tests, echo doesn’t involve radiation. Transthoracic Echocardiography Transthoracic (tranz-thor-AS-ik) echo is the most [...]
What Is Echocardiography? Echocardiography (EK-o-kar-de-OG-ra-fee), or echo, is a painless test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart. The test gives your doctor information about the size and shape of your heart and how well your heart’s chambers and valves are working. Echo also can be done to detect heart problems in [...]
Living With Coronary Microvascular Disease If you have coronary microvascular disease (MVD), you can take steps to stop it from getting worse. These steps are the same as those described in ”How Can Coronary Microvascular Disease Be Prevented?” Coronary MVD, like traditional coronary heart disease, increases your risk of a heart attack. If you have signs and symptoms [...]
How Is Coronary Microvascular Disease Treated? One of the main goals of treating coronary microvascular disease (MVD) is to relieve pain. Treatments also are used to control risk factors and other symptoms. Treatments may include medicines such as: Statins to improve cholesterol levels ACE inhibitors and beta blockers to lower blood pressure and decrease the [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Microvascular Disease? The signs and symptoms of coronary microvascular disease (MVD) often differ from the signs and symptoms of traditional coronary heart disease (CHD). A common symptom of CHD is angina (an-JI-nuh or AN-juh-nuh). Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough [...]
Who Is At Risk for Coronary Microvascular Disease? Studies have shown that women are more likely than men to have coronary microvascular disease (MVD). Women at high risk for the disease often have multiple risk factors for atherosclerosis. (For a detailed list of these risk factors, go to ”What Causes Coronary Microvascular Disease?”) Women may be at [...]
Other Names for Coronary Microvascular Disease Cardiac syndrome X Nonobstructive coronary heart disease What Causes Coronary Microvascular Disease? The same risk factors that cause atherosclerosis (ATH-er-o-skler-O-sis) may cause coronary microvascular disease (MVD). Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries harden and narrow due to the buildup of plaque on their inner walls. Risk factors for [...]
What Is Coronary Microvascular Disease? Coronary microvascular disease (MVD) is heart disease that affects the heart’s smallest coronary arteries. Coronary MVD occurs in the heart’s tiny arteries if the walls of the arteries are damaged or diseased. Coronary MVD is different from traditional coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease. In CHD, a fatty [...]
What Are the Risks of a Coronary Calcium Scan? Coronary calcium scanning has very few risks. The test isn’t invasive, which means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. Coronary calcium scanning doesn’t require an injection of contrast dye to make your heart or arteries visible on x-ray images. [...]
What To Expect After a Coronary Calcium Scan You’ll be able to return to your normal activities after the coronary calcium scan is done. Your doctor will discuss the results of the calcium scan with you. What Does a Coronary Calcium Scan Show? After a coronary calcium scan, you’ll get a calcium score called an [...]
What To Expect Before a Coronary Calcium Scan No special preparation is needed for a coronary calcium scan. Your doctor may ask you to avoid caffeine and smoking for 4 hours before the test. For the scan, you’ll remove your clothes above the waist and wear a hospital gown. You also will remove any jewelry [...]
What Is a Coronary Calcium Scan? A coronary calcium scan is a test that can help show whether you have coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease. CHD is the most common type of heart disease in both men and women. In CHD, a substance called plaque (plak) builds up inside your coronary arteries. [...]
How Can Coronary Artery Disease Be Prevented or Delayed? Taking action to control your risk factors can help prevent or delay coronary artery disease (CAD). Your chance of developing CAD goes up with the number of risk factors you have. Making lifestyle changes and taking prescribed medicines are important steps. See ”How Is Coronary Artery Disease Treated?” [...]
How Is Coronary Artery Disease Treated? Treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD) may include lifestyle changes, medicines, and medical procedures. The goals of treatments are to: Relieve symptoms Reduce risk factors in an effort to slow, stop, or reverse the buildup of plaque Lower the risk of blood clots forming, which can cause a heart attack [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease? A common symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD) is angina. Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina may feel like pressure or a squeezing pain in your chest. You also may feel it in your [...]
What Causes Coronary Artery Disease? Research suggests that coronary artery disease (CAD) starts when certain factors damage the inner layers of the coronary arteries. These factors include: Smoking High amounts of certain fats and cholesterol in the blood High blood pressure High amounts of sugar in the blood due to insulin resistance or diabetes When damage occurs, [...]
What Is Coronary Artery Disease? Coronary artery disease (CAD), also called coronary heart disease, is a condition in which plaque (plak) builds up inside the coronary arteries. These arteries supply your heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol (ko-LES-ter-ol), calcium, and other substances found in the blood. When plaque builds [...]
What Are the Risks of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Although complications from coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are uncommon, the risks include: Wound infection and bleeding Reactions to anesthesia Fever Pain Stroke, heart attack, or even death Some patients develop a fever associated with chest pain, irritability, and decreased appetite. This is due to inflammation involving [...]
What To Expect After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Recovery in the Hospital After surgery, you’ll typically spend 1 or 2 days in an intensive care unit (ICU). Your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be checked regularly during this time. An intravenous line (IV) will likely be inserted into a vein in your [...]
What To Expect Before Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Tests may be done to prepare you for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). For example, you may haveblood tests, an EKG (electrocardiogram), echocardiography, a chest x ray, cardiac cathetaerization, andcoronary angiography. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about how to prepare for surgery. He or she will advise you about [...]
Who Needs Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is used to treat people who have severe coronary heart disease(CHD) that could lead to a heart attack. CABG also may be used to treat people who have heart damage following a heart attack but still have blocked arteries. Your doctor may recommend CABG if other [...]
Types of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Traditional Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting This is the most common type of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). It’s used when at least one major artery needs to be bypassed. During the surgery, the chest bone is opened to access the heart. Medicines are given to stop the heart, and [...]
What Is Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a type of surgery that improves blood flow to the heart. It’s used for people who have severe coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease. CHD is a condition in which a substance called plaque (plak) builds up inside the coronary arteries. [...]
What Are the Risks of Coronary Angiography? Coronary angiography is a common medical test that rarely causes serious problems. But complications can include: Bleeding, infection, and pain at the site where the catheter was inserted. Damage to blood vessels. This is a very rare complication. It may occur if the catheter scrapes or pokes a [...]
What To Expect During Coronary Angiography During coronary angiography, you’re kept on your back and awake. That way, you can follow your doctor’s instructions during the test. You’ll be given medicine to help you relax. The medicine may make you sleepy. Your doctor will numb the area where the catheter (a small plastic tube) will [...]
What Is Coronary Angiography? Coronary angiography (an-jee-OG-ra-fee) is a test that uses dye and special x rays to show the inside of your coronary arteries. The coronary arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart. A material called plaque (plak) can build up on the inside walls of the coronary arteries, causing them to narrow. When [...]
Living With Heart Failure Heart failure can’t be cured. You’ll likely have to take medicine and follow a treatment plan for the rest of your life. Despite treatment, symptoms may get worse over time. You may not be able to do many of the things that you did before you had heart failure. However, if [...]
How Is Heart Failure Treated? Early diagnosis and treatment can help people who have heart failure live longer, more active lives. Treatment for heart failure will depend on the type and stage of heart failure (the severity of the condition). The goals of treatment for all stages of heart failure include: Treating the underlying cause [...]
How Is Heart Failure Diagnosed? Your doctor will diagnose heart failure based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and the results of tests. Because the signs and symptoms of heart failure also are common in other conditions, your doctor will: Find out whether you have a disease or condition that can cause [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Heart Failure? The most common signs and symptoms of heart failure are: Shortness of breath or trouble breathing Fatigue (tiredness) Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, abdomen, and veins in the neck All of these symptoms are the result of fluid buildup in your body. When symptoms start, [...]
What Causes Heart Failure? Conditions that damage or overwork the heart muscle can cause heart failure. Over time, the heart weakens. It isn’t able to fill with and/or pump blood as well as it should. As the heart weakens, certain proteins and other substances may be released into the blood. These substances have a toxic [...]
What Is Heart Failure? Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. In some cases, the heart can’t fill with enough blood. In other cases, the heart can’t pump blood to the rest of the body with enough force. Some people have both problems. The [...]
Key Points Congenital heart defects are problems with the heart’s structure that are present at birth. These defects can involve the interior walls of the heart, the valves inside the heart, or the arteries and veins that carry blood to the heart or out to the body. Congenital heart defects change the normal flow of [...]
Living With a Congenital Heart Defect The outlook for a child who has a congenital heart defect is much better today than in the past. Advances in testing and treatment mean that most children who have heart defects survive to adulthood and are able to live active, productive lives. Many of these children need only [...]
How Are Congenital Heart Defects Treated? Although many children who have congenital heart defects don’t need treatment, some do. Doctors repair congenital heart defects with catheter procedures or surgery. The treatment your child receives depends on the type and severity of his or her heart defect. Other factors include your child’s age, size, and general [...]
How Are Congenital Heart Defects Diagnosed? Severe congenital heart defects are generally found during pregnancy or soon after birth. Less severe defects aren’t diagnosed until children are older. Minor defects often have no signs or symptoms and are diagnosed based on results from a physical exam and tests done for another reason. Specialists Involved Doctors [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Congenital Heart Defects? Many congenital heart defects have few or no signs or symptoms. A doctor may not even detect signs of a heart defect during a physical exam. Some heart defects do have signs and symptoms. They depend on the number, type, and severity of the defects. [...]
What Causes Congenital Heart Defects? If you have a child who has a congenital heart defect, you may think you did something wrong during your pregnancy to cause the problem. However, most of the time doctors don’t know why congenital heart defects develop. Heredity may play a role in some heart defects. For example, a [...]
Other Names for Congenital Heart Defects Congenital heart disease Heart defects Congenital cardiovascular malformations
Types of Congenital Heart Defects Congenital heart defects change the normal flow of blood through the heart. This is because some part of the heart didn’t develop properly before birth. There are many types of congenital heart defects. Some are simple, such as a hole in the septum that allows blood from the left and [...]
How the Heart Works To understand congenital heart defects, it’s helpful to know how a normal heart works. Your child’s heart is a muscle about the size of his or her fist. It works like a pump and beats 100,000 times a day. The heart has two sides, separated by an inner wall called the [...]
What Are Congenital Heart Defects? Congenital (kon-JEN-i-tal) heart defects are problems with the heart’s structure that are present at birth. These defects can involve: The interior walls of the heart The valves inside the heart The arteries and veins that carry blood to the heart or out to the body Congenital heart defects change the [...]
Key Points Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is made in your body. Cholesterol is also in some foods that you eat. Your body needs some cholesterol to work the right way. Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs. Too much cholesterol in the blood is called high blood cholesterol or hypercholesterolemia. High blood [...]
How Is High Blood Cholesterol Treated? The main goal of cholesterol-lowering treatment is to lower your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level enough to reduce your risk for having a heart attack or diseases caused by hardening of the arteries. In general, the higher your LDL level and the more risk factors you have, the greater your chances [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Cholesterol? There are usually no signs or symptoms of high blood cholesterol. Many people don’t know that their cholesterol level is too high. Everyone age 20 and older should have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every 5 years. You and your doctor can discuss [...]
Other Names for High Blood Cholesterol Hypercholesterolemia (HI-per-ko-LES-ter-ol-E-me-a) Hyperlipidemia (HI-per-lip-i-DE-me-a) What Causes High Blood Cholesterol? A variety of things can affect the cholesterol levels in your blood. Some of these things you can control and others you cannot. You can control: What you eat. Certain foods have types of fat that raise your cholesterol level. [...]
What Is Cholesterol? To understand high blood cholesterol (ko-LES-ter-ol), it is important to know more about cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work the right way. Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs. Cholesterol is also found in [...]
Key Points Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina is the symptom of an underlying heart condition, usually coronary heart disease(CHD). CHD occurs when a fatty material called plaque builds up on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. Plaque narrows and stiffens the coronary [...]
Living With Angina Angina isn’t a heart attack, but it does increase your risk of having a heart attack. The risk is even higher if you have unstable angina. For these reasons, it’s important that you know: The usual pattern of your angina, if you have it regularly. What medicines you take (keep a list) and [...]
How Can Angina Be Prevented? You can prevent or lower your risk of angina and heart disease by making lifestyle changes and treating related conditions. Making Lifestyle Changes Healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent or delay angina and heart disease. To adopt a healthy lifestyle, you can: Avoid angina triggers Follow a healthy diet Quit [...]
How Is Angina Treated? Treatments for angina include lifestyle changes, medicines, medical procedures, cardiac rehabilitation (rehab), and other therapies. The main goals of treatment are to: Reduce pain and discomfort and how often it occurs Prevent or lower the risk of heart attack and death by treating the underlying heart condition Lifestyle changes and medicines may [...]
How Is Angina Diagnosed? The most important issues to address when you go to the doctor with chest pain are: What’s causing the chest pain Whether you’re having or are about to have a heart attack Angina is a symptom of an underlying heart problem, usually coronary heart disease (CHD). The type of angina pain you have [...]
Who Is At Risk for Angina? Angina is a symptom of an underlying heart problem. It’s usually a symptom of coronary heart disease (CHD), but it also can be a symptom of coronary microvascular disease (MVD). So, if you’re at risk for CHD or coronary MVD, you’re also at risk for angina. The major risk [...]
What Causes Angina? Underlying Causes Angina usually is a symptom of coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD reduces blood flow to an area of heart muscle, which causes angina pain. This means that the underlying causes of angina generally are the same as the underlying causes of CHD. Research suggests that CHD starts when certain factors damage [...]
What Is Angina? Angina (an-JI-nuh or AN-juh-nuh) is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when an area of your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. The pain also may occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain may even feel like [...]
Key Points Chest MRI is a safe, noninvasive test. It creates detailed pictures of the structures in your chest, like your chest wall, heart, and blood vessels. Radio waves, magnets, and a computer are used to make these pictures. Chest MRI is used to look for tumors in the chest; look at blood vessels, lymph [...]
What Are the Risks of Chest MRI? There are no risks from the magnetic fields or radio waves used during a chest MRI. Serious reactions to the contrast dye used for some MRIs are very rare. However, side effects are possible and include the following: Headache Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) Dizziness Changes in [...]
What Does a Chest MRI Show? A chest MRI may show a tumor, problems in the blood vessels (such as an aneurysm or blood clot), abnormal lymph nodes, and other chest conditions.
What To Expect After Chest MRI You usually can return to your normal routine right after a chest MRI. If you got medicine to help you relax during the MRI, your doctor will tell you when you can return to your normal routine. The medicine may make you tired, so you’ll need someone to drive [...]
What To Expect During Chest MRI A chest MRI usually is done at a hospital or at a special medical imaging facility. A radiologist (ra-de-OL-o-jist) or other doctor with special training in this type of test oversees the testing. A chest MRI usually takes 45 to 90 minutes, depending on how many pictures are needed. [...]
What To Expect Before Chest MRI Your doctor or the MRI technician will ask you some questions before a chest MRI, including: Are you pregnant or do you think you could be? Have you had any surgery? If so, what kind? Do you have any metal objects in your body, like metal screws or pins [...]
Who Needs a Chest MRI? You may need a chest MRI if your doctor suspects you have a chest condition, such as: A tumor Problems in the blood vessels, such as an aneurysm (AN-u-rism) or blood clot Abnormal lymph nodes Other chest conditions A chest MRI also may be used to explain the results of other [...]
What Is Chest MRI? Chest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe, noninvasive test. “Noninvasive” means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. This test creates detailed pictures of the structures in your chest, like your chest wall, heart, and blood vessels. Chest MRI uses radio waves, magnets, and [...]
Key Points A chest CT scan is a painless, noninvasive test that creates precise images of the structures in your chest, such as your lungs. A chest CT scan is a type of x ray, but a CT scan’s pictures show more details than the pictures from a standard chest x ray. Like other x-ray tests, [...]
What Are the Risks of a Chest CT Scan? Radiation You will receive radiation during a chest CT scan. The amount will vary with the type of CT scan. On average, though, the amount of radiation will not exceed the amount you’re naturally exposed to over 3 years. The radiation from the test is gone [...]
What Does a Chest CT Scan Show? A chest CT scan provides detailed pictures of the size, shape, and position of your lungs and other structures in your chest. Doctors use this test to: Follow up on abnormalities that are found on standard chest x rays. Find the cause of lung symptoms, such as shortness of [...]
What To Expect After a Chest CT Scan You usually can return to your normal routine right after a chest CT scan. If you got medicine to help you relax during the CT scan, your doctor will tell you when you can return to your normal routine. The medicine may make you sleepy, so you’ll [...]
What To Expect During a Chest CT Scan A chest CT scan takes about 30 minutes, which includes preparation time. The actual scanning time is much shorter, only a few minutes or less. The CT scanner is a large machine that has a tunnel-like hole in the middle. You will lie on a narrow table [...]
What To Expect Before a Chest CT Scan What To Wear Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing for the test. In some cases, the CT scan technician (a person specially trained to do CT scans) may ask you to wear a hospital gown. You also may want to avoid wearing jewelry and other metal objects. You’ll be [...]
Other Names for Chest CT Scans Lung imaging test Computed axial tomography (CAT) scan Helical CT scan (another name for spiral CT scan) Who Needs a Chest CT Scan? People who have symptoms of lung problems, such as chest pain or trouble breathing, may need chest CT scans. The scan helps find the cause of [...]
Types of Chest CT Scans A CT scanner is a large machine with a tunnel-like hole in the center. During a chest CT scan, you lie on a table as it moves small distances at a time through the hole. An x-ray beam rotates around your body as you move through the hole. A computer [...]
What Is a Chest CT Scan? A chest computed tomography (to-MOG-ra-fee), or CT, scan is a painless, noninvasive test. It creates precise images of the structures in your chest, such as your lungs. “Noninvasive” means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. A chest CT scan is a type [...]
Key Points Catheter ablation is a medical procedure used to treat some types ofarrhythmia. An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. Catheter ablation is one of several arrhythmia treatments. Your doctor may recommend catheter ablation: To treat your arrhythmia if medicine doesn’t help or if you can’t tolerate medicine. [...]
What Are the Risks of Catheter Ablation? Catheter ablation has some risks. The procedure may cause: Bleeding, infection, and pain at the site where the ablation catheter was inserted. Damage to your blood vessels. This complication is very rare. It’s caused by the catheter scraping or poking a hole in a blood vessel as it’s [...]
What To Expect After Catheter Ablation After catheter ablation, you’ll be moved to a special care unit where you’ll lie still for 4 to 6 hours of recovery. Lying still prevents bleeding at the site where the ablation catheter was inserted. While you’re in the special care unit, you’ll be connected to special devices that [...]
What To Expect During Catheter Ablation Catheter ablation is done in a hospital. Doctors who do this procedure have special training in cardiac electrophysiology (the heart’s electrical system) and ablation (destruction) of diseased heart tissue. Before the Procedure If you’re a woman of childbearing age, your doctor may recommend a pregnancy test before catheter ablation [...]
What To Expect Before Catheter Ablation Before you have catheter ablation, your doctor may review your medical history, do a physical exam, and recommend tests and procedures. Your doctor will want to know about any medicines you’re taking. Some medicines can interfere with catheter ablation. If you take any of these medicines, your doctor may [...]
Who Needs Catheter Ablation? Your doctor may recommend catheter ablation if: You have an arrhythmia that medicine can’t control. You can’t tolerate the medicines your doctor has prescribed for your arrhythmia. You have certain types of arrhythmia. (Your doctor can tell you whether catheter ablation may help treat your arrhythmia.) You have abnormal electrical activity in [...]
What Is Catheter Ablation? Catheter ablation (ab-LA-shun) is a medical procedure used to treat some types ofarrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah). An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During catheter ablation, a long, thin, flexible tube is put into a blood vessel in your arm, groin (upper thigh), or neck. This tube [...]
Key Points Carotid ultrasound is a test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the insides of the two large arteries in your neck. These arteries, called carotid arteries, supply your brain with oxygen-rich blood. A carotid ultrasound can show whether a fatty substance called plaque has narrowed one or both of your [...]
What Are the Risks of Carotid Ultrasound? There are no risks linked to having a carotid ultrasound, because the test uses harmless sound waves. These are the same type of sound waves that doctors use to record pictures of fetuses in pregnant women.
What To Expect After Carotid Ultrasound You usually don’t have to take any special steps after a carotid ultrasound. You should be able to return to normal activities right away. Often, your doctor will be able to tell you the results of the carotid ultrasound when it occurs or soon afterward. What Does a Carotid [...]
What To Expect During Carotid Ultrasound Carotid ultrasound usually is done in a doctor’s office or hospital. The test is painless and often doesn’t take more than 30 minutes. The ultrasound machine includes a computer, a video screen, and a transducer. A transducer is a hand-held device that sends and receives ultrasound waves into and [...]
Who Needs Carotid Ultrasound? Carotid ultrasound checks for plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. Plaque can narrow or block your carotid arteries, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching your brain. Your doctor may recommend a carotid ultrasound if you: Had a stroke or mini-stroke recently. During a mini-stroke, you may have some or all of the symptoms [...]
What Is Carotid Ultrasound? Carotid (ka-ROT-id) ultrasound is a painless and harmless test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the insides of the two large arteries in your neck. These arteries, called carotid arteries, supply your brain with oxygen-rich blood. You have one carotid artery on each side of your neck. Carotid [...]
Key Points Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is surgery to remove plaque from the carotid arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your brain. CEA is used to prevent stroke in people who have carotid artery disease. Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in the carotid arteries. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows the arteries. This limits [...]
What Are the Risks of Carotid Endarterectomy? Serious complications from carotid endarterectomy (CEA) are uncommon, but they do occur. For example, there’s a small risk of having a stroke during or after the surgery. This is because the procedure can dislodge blood clots, which may then block an artery. There’s also a small risk of brain [...]
What To Expect After Carotid Endarterectomy After carotid endarterectomy (CEA) surgery, you may stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. This allows your doctor to watch for any signs of complications. If your surgery takes place early in the day and you’re doing well, you may be able to go home the same [...]
What To Expect During Carotid Endarterectomy Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is done in a hospital. The surgery usually takes about 2 hours. You will have anesthesia (AN-es-THE-ze-a) during the surgery so you don’t feel pain. General anesthesia temporarily puts you to sleep. Local anesthesia numbs only certain areas of your body. Your surgeon may choose to [...]
What To Expect Before Carotid Endarterectomy Your doctor will talk to you about how to prepare for carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Before CEA, you may have one or more tests to examine your carotid arteries. These tests can show whether your arteries are narrowed or blocked, and how severe your condition is. Carotid Ultrasound Carotid ultrasound [...]
Who Needs Carotid Endarterectomy? Your doctor may recommend carotid endarterectomy (CEA) if you have carotid artery disease. CEA can help prevent strokes in people who have this condition. CEA is most helpful for people who have carotid artery disease and one or more of the following: A prior stroke. A prior transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “mini-stroke.” During [...]
What Is Carotid Endarterectomy? Carotid endarterectomy (ka-ROT-id END-ar-ter-EK-to-me), or CEA, is surgery to remove plaque (plak) from the carotid arteries. These are the two large arteries on each side of your neck. They supply oxygen-rich blood to your brain. CEA is used to prevent stroke, or “brain attack,” in people who have carotid artery disease. Carotid artery [...]
Key Points Carotid artery disease is a condition in which a fatty material called plaque builds up inside the carotid arteries. You have two common carotid arteries—one on each side of your neck—that divide into internal and external carotid arteries. Plaque narrows the carotid arteries and limits blood flow to the brain. It also makes [...]
Living With Carotid Artery Disease If you have carotid artery disease, you can take steps to stop it from getting worse. Make lifestyle changes, follow your treatment plan, and know the warning signs of stroke. Lifestyle Changes Follow a healthy eating plan that’s low in fats, sodium (salt), and cholesterol. Two examples of healthy eating plans [...]
How Can Carotid Artery Disease Be Prevented? Taking action to control your risk factors can help prevent or delay carotid artery disease and stroke. The more risk factors you have, the more likely you are to get carotid artery disease. Making lifestyle changes and taking prescribed medicines are important steps. For information on healthy eating plans, physical [...]
How Is Carotid Artery Disease Treated? Treatments for carotid artery disease may include lifestyle changes, medicines, and medical procedures. The goals of treatment are to stop the disease from getting worse and to prevent a stroke. Your treatment will depend on your symptoms, how severe the disease is, and your age and overall health. Lifestyle Changes [...]
How Is Carotid Artery Disease Diagnosed? Your doctor will diagnose carotid artery disease based on your medical history and the results from a physical exam and tests. Medical History Your doctor will find out whether you have any of the major risk factors for carotid artery disease. He or she also will ask whether you’ve had [...]
How Is Carotid Artery Disease Diagnosed? Your doctor will diagnose carotid artery disease based on your medical history and the results from a physical exam and tests. Medical History Your doctor will find out whether you have any of the major risk factors for carotid artery disease. He or she also will ask whether you’ve had [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Carotid Artery Disease? Carotid artery disease may not cause signs or symptoms until it severely narrows or blocks the carotid arteries. Signs and symptoms may include a bruit (broo-E), a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or a stroke. Bruit During a physical exam, your doctor may listen to your carotid [...]
Who Is At Risk for Carotid Artery Disease? Certain traits, conditions, or habits may raise your risk for carotid artery disease. These conditions are known as risk factors. The more risk factors you have, the more likely you are to get the disease. You can control some, but not all, risk factors. The major risk [...]
What Causes Carotid Artery Disease? Carotid artery disease appears to start when damage occurs to the inner layers of the carotid arteries. Major factors that contribute to damage include: Smoking High amounts of certain fats and cholesterol in the blood High blood pressure High amounts of sugar in the blood due to insulin resistance or diabetes When [...]
Heart Attack Guidelines Close Racial Gaps in Hospital Care Hospitals using guidelines from the American Heart Association have been able to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities when caring for heart attack patients, a new study finds. Called Get With The Guidelines, the program shows that disparities in care can be eliminated while at the same [...]
Calcium Supplements Linked to Boost in Heart Attack Risk Although millions of people take calcium supplements to boost bone health and ward off osteoporosis, New Zealand researchers say the supplements have little effect on bone strength and contribute to a small increase in the risk for heart attack among older people. Rather than relying on [...]
Rush Victims of Deadliest Heart Attacks to Specialty Centers: Study New research may shed some light on the ongoing public health debate regarding how to minimize the death rate from the most serious kinds of heart attacks, while also limiting health care costs. One option under consideration is increasing the number of hospitals that are [...]
Engineered stem cells may limit heart attack damage, improve function Study highlights: Early results in rats suggest that implanted genetically engineered stem cells may reduce organ damage and improve cardiac function after a heart attack. Seeding the cells on tiny plastic scaffolds appears to be the best approach. More research is needed before human testing [...]
Heart Attack Care Is Getting Better, Report Finds Patients who have a heart attack and undergo procedures to open blocked arteries are getting proven treatments in U.S. hospitals faster and more safely than ever before, according to the results of a large-scale study. Data on more than 131,000 heart attack patients treated at about 250 [...]
Diabetes May Double Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke Diabetes appears to double the risk of dying from a heart attack, stroke or other heart condition, a new study finds. The researchers implicate diabetes in one of every 10 deaths from cardiovascular disease, or about 325,000 deaths a year in industrialized countries. “We have known for [...]
Talk With Doctor Helps Heart Attack Patients Resume Sex People who don’t have a frank talk about sex with their doctor after they have had a heart attack are less likely to resume sexual activity, new research finds. The study of 1,184 men and 576 women treated for heart attacks found that the men were [...]
Big Decline in Heart Attacks If All States Had Smoking Bans If all states banned smoking in restaurants, offices and other public spaces nationwide, the number of Americans suffering from heart attacks would drop by more than 18,000 within the first year, researchers report. “Comprehensive smoking bans have been implemented in some states, but not [...]
Colder Weather Boosts Heart Attack Risk Just a small drop in the outdoor temperature can translate into a heightened risk for heart attack in the following month, new British research indicates. Based on an analysis of temperature records and more than 84,000 hospital admissions for heart attacks that took place over a three-year period between [...]
Vitamin B May Not Guard Against Second Stroke, Heart Attack Stroke patients who take vitamin B supplements to lower their homocysteine levels may not be protected from second strokes or heart attacks, a new study finds. Earlier studies found an association between homocysteine, an amino acid, in the blood, and an increased risk for stroke [...]
Key Points A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of heart muscle becomes blocked. If the flow of blood isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle becomes damaged from lack of oxygen and begins to die. Heart attack is a leading killer of both men and women in the United States. [...]
Life After a Heart Attack Many people survive heart attacks and live active and full lives. If you get help quickly, treatment can limit the damage to your heart muscle. Less heart damage improves your chances for a better quality of life after a heart attack. Medical Followup After a heart attack, you will need [...]
How Can a Heart Attack Be Prevented? Lowering your risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) can help you prevent a heart attack. (See “Who Is At Risk for a Heart Attack?”) Even if you already have CAD, you can still take steps to lower your risk of heart attack. Reducing the risk of heart attack [...]
How Is a Heart Attack Treated? Early treatment can prevent or limit damage to the heart muscle. Acting fast, at the first symptoms of heart attack, can save your life. Medical personnel can begin diagnosis and treatment even before you get to the hospital. Certain treatments are usually started right away if a heart attack [...]
How Is a Heart Attack Diagnosed? The diagnosis of heart attack is based on your symptoms, your personal and family medical history, and the results of diagnostic tests. EKG (Electrocardiogram) This test detects and records the electrical activity of the heart. Certain changes in the appearance of the electrical waves on an EKG are strong [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack? Not all heart attacks begin with a sudden, crushing pain that is often shown on TV or in the movies. The warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack aren’t the same for everyone. Many heart attacks start slowly as mild pain or discomfort. Some [...]
Who Is At Risk for a Heart Attack? Certain risk factors make it more likely that you will develop coronary artery disease (CAD) and have a heart attack. Some risk factors for heart attack can be controlled, while others can’t. Major risk factors for heart attack that you can control include: Smoking High blood pressure High [...]
What Causes a Heart Attack? Most heart attacks occur as a result of coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is the buildup over time of a material called plaque on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. Eventually, a section of plaque can break open, causing a blood clot to form at the site. A heart attack [...]
Other Names for a Heart Attack Myocardial infarction or MI Acute myocardial infarction or AMI Acute coronary syndrome Coronary thrombosis Coronary occlusion
What Is a Heart Attack? A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of heart muscle becomes blocked. If the flow of blood isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle becomes damaged from lack of oxygen and begins to die. Heart attack is a leading killer of both men and women in [...]
Key Points Cardioversion is a procedure used to restore an arrhythmia (a fast or irregular heartbeat) to a normal rhythm. Cardioversion is done two ways: using an electrical procedure or using medicines. This article discusses electrical cardioversion. For this procedure, low-energy shocks are given to your heart to trigger a normal rhythm. Cardioversion isn’t the same [...]
What Are the Risks of Cardioversion? Cardioversion can sometimes worsen arrhythmias. Rarely, it can cause life-threatening arrhythmias. These irregular heartbeats will occur within minutes of the procedure. They’re treated right away with electrical shocks or medicines, so they usually don’t cause serious problems. Rarely, cardioversion can cause stroke or other complications due to blood clots in the [...]
What To Expect After Cardioversion You’ll be closely watched for an hour or so after the procedure for any signs of complications. Your doctor or nurse will let you know when you can go home. You may feel drowsy for several hours after the cardioversion because of the medicine used to make you sleep. You [...]
What To Expect During Cardioversion A nurse or technician will stick soft pads, called electrodes, on your chest and possibly on your back. Some shaving may be needed to get the pads to stick to your skin. These pads are attached to a cardioversion machine. The machine records your heart’s electrical activity. The machine also [...]
What To Expect Before Cardioversion You usually can’t have any food or drinks for about 12 hours before the cardioversion (as your doctor advises). You’re at increased risk for dangerous blood clots during and after a cardioversion. This is because the procedure can dislodge blood clots that may have formed due to an arrhythmia. Your doctor [...]
Who Needs Cardioversion? You may need cardioversion if you have an arrhythmia that’s causing troublesome symptoms. These symptoms may include dizziness, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue (tiredness), and chest discomfort. Atrial fibrillation (A-tre-al fi-bri-LA-shun), or AF, is the most common type of arrhythmia treated with cardioversion. In AF, the heart’s electrical signals travel through the heart’s [...]
What Is Cardioversion? Cardioversion (KAR-de-o-VER-shun) is a procedure used to restore a fast or irregular heartbeat to a normal rhythm. A fast or irregular heartbeat is called an arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah). Arrhythmias can prevent your heart from pumping enough blood to your body. They also can raise your risk ofstroke, heart attack, and sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Overview To [...]
Restrictive Cardiomyopathy Restrictive (infiltrative) cardiomyopathy includes a group of heart disorders in which the walls of the ventricles become stiff, but not necessarily thickened, and resist normal filling with blood between heartbeats. Restrictive cardiomyopathy may occur when heart muscle is gradually infiltrated or replaced by scar tissue or when abnormal substances accumulate in the heart [...]
LONG TERM PROGNOSIS The long-term outlook of pediatric cardiomyopathy continues to be unpredictable because it occurs with such a wide spectrum of severity and outcome. Even if a child has a family history of the disease, the degree to which he or she is affected can vary considerably from his/her parents or siblings. The overall [...]
CARDIOMYOPATHY: CARING FOR A CHILD: PSYCHOLOGICAL ISSUES Common Feelings The possibility of deterioration or premature death associated with cardiomyopathy creates unique social and emotional issues for affected families. The fear and anxiety from living with a chronic illness and the lack of predictability can make raising a child with cardiomyopathy more challenging. As a parent, [...]
How is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Diagnosed? Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy may be suspected because of symptoms, a murmur or an abnormal ECG/EKG. An individual with the condition may present with any of the symptoms described previously. Because such symptoms could be caused by a large number of other conditions, further tests are necessary. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy may be suspected [...]
Cardiomyopathy What is cardiomyopathy? Cardiomyopathy is a serious disease in which the heart muscle becomes inflamed and doesn’t work as well as it should. There may be multiple causes including viral infections. Cardiomyopathy can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary cardiomyopathy can’t be attributed to a specific cause, such as high blood pressure, heart [...]
Key Points Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle. These diseases have a variety of causes, symptoms, and treatments. In cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle becomes enlarged, thick, or rigid. In rare cases, the muscle tissue in the heart is replaced with scar tissue. As cardiomyopathy worsens, the heart muscle becomes weaker. It’s less able [...]
Living With Cardiomyopathy Some people who have cardiomyopathy—especially those who have the hypertrophic type—may live a healthy life with few problems or symptoms. Others may have serious symptoms and complications. If you have cardiomyopathy, you can take steps to take care of your heart. Lifestyle changes and ongoing care can help you manage your disease. [...]
How Can Cardiomyopathy Be Prevented? You can’t prevent inherited types of cardiomyopathy. However, you can take steps to lower your risk for conditions that may lead to or complicate cardiomyopathy, such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and heart attack. Your doctor may advise you to make lifestyle changes, such as: Following a healthy diet and doing [...]
How Is Cardiomyopathy Treated? Not everyone who has cardiomyopathy needs treatment. People who have no signs or symptoms may not need treatment. In some cases, dilated cardiomyopathy that comes on suddenly may even go away on its own. For other people who have cardiomyopathy, treatment is needed. Treatment depends on the type of cardiomyopathy you [...]
How Is Cardiomyopathy Diagnosed? Your doctor will diagnose cardiomyopathy based on your medical history, a physical exam, and the results from tests and procedures. Specialists Involved Often, a cardiologist or pediatric cardiologist diagnoses and treats cardiomyopathy. A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in treating heart diseases. A pediatric cardiologist is a doctor who specializes [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Cardiomyopathy? Some people who have cardiomyopathy never have signs or symptoms. Others don’t have signs or symptoms in the early stages of the disease. As cardiomyopathy worsens and the heart weakens, signs and symptoms of heart failure usually occur. These signs and symptoms include: Shortness of breath or trouble [...]
Who Is At Risk for Cardiomyopathy? People of all ages can have cardiomyopathy. However, certain types of the disease are more common in certain groups. Dilated cardiomyopathy is more common in African Americans than in Whites. This type of the disease also is more common in men than women. Teens and young adults are more [...]
What Causes Cardiomyopathy? Cardiomyopathy can be acquired or inherited. “Acquired” means you aren’t born with the disease, but you develop it due to another disease, condition, or factor. “Inherited” means your parents passed the gene for the disease on to you. Researchers continue to look for the genetic links to cardiomyopathy. They also continue to [...]
Other Names for Cardiomyopathy Other Names for Dilated Cardiomyopathy Alcoholic cardiomyopathy. This term is used when overuse of alcohol causes the disease. Congestive cardiomyopathy. Diabetic cardiomyopathy. Familial dilated cardiomyopathy. Idiopathic cardiomyopathy. Ischemic cardiomyopathy. This term is used when coronary artery disease or heart attack causes the disease. Peripartum cardiomyopathy. This term is used when the disease develops [...]
Types of Cardiomyopathy Dilated Cardiomyopathy Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common type of the disease. It mostly occurs in adults aged 20 to 60. Men are more likely than women to have this type of cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy affects the heart’s ventricles (VEN-trih-kuls) and atria (AY-tree-uh). These are the lower and upper chambers of the [...]
What Is Cardiomyopathy? Cardiomyopathy (KAR-de-o-mi-OP-a-the) refers to diseases of the heart muscle. These diseases have a variety of causes, symptoms, and treatments. In cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle becomes enlarged, thick, or rigid. In rare cases, the muscle tissue in the heart is replaced with scar tissue. As cardiomyopathy worsens, the heart becomes weaker. It’s less [...]
Key Points Cardiogenic shock is a state in which a suddenly weakened heart isn’t able to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to meet the body’s needs. This condition is a medical emergency and is fatal if not treated right away. The medical term “shock” refers to a state in which not enough blood and oxygen reach [...]
How Can Cardiogenic Shock Be Prevented? The best way to prevent cardiogenic shock is to lower your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart attack. (For more information, see the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s ”Your Guide to a Healthy Heart.”) If you already have CHD, it’s important to get ongoing treatment from a doctor who [...]
How Is Cardiogenic Shock Treated? Cardiogenic shock is life threatening and requires emergency medical treatment. In most cases, cardiogenic shock is diagnosed after a person has been admitted to a hospital for a heart attack. If the person isn’t already in a hospital, emergency treatment can start as soon as medical personnel arrive. The goals of [...]
How Is Cardiogenic Shock Diagnosed? The first step in diagnosing cardiogenic shock is to identify that a person is in shock. At that point, emergency treatment should be started. Once emergency treatment starts, doctors can look for the specific cause of the shock. If the reason for the shock is that the heart isn’t pumping [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Cardiogenic Shock? A lack of oxygen-rich blood reaching the brain, kidneys, skin, and other parts of the body causes the signs and symptoms of cardiogenic shock. Some of the typical signs and symptoms of shock usually include at least two or more of the following: Confusion or lack [...]
Who Is At Risk for Cardiogenic Shock? The most common risk factor for cardiogenic shock is having a heart attack. If you’ve had a heart attack, the following factors can further increase your risk of cardiogenic shock: Older age Having a history of heart attacks or heart failure Having coronary heart disease that affects all of the heart’s [...]
What Causes Cardiogenic Shock? Immediate Causes Cardiogenic shock happens if the heart suddenly can’t pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. This mostly occurs if the heart’s lower left chamber, the left ventricle (VEN-trih-kul), suddenly stops working because an ongoing heart attack prevents the heart muscle from getting enough oxygen-rich blood. As a result, the weakened [...]
What Is Cardiogenic Shock? Cardiogenic (kar-dee-oh-JE-nik) shock is a state in which a suddenly weakened heart isn’t able to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. The condition is a medical emergency and is fatal if not treated right away. The most common cause of cardiogenic shock is damage to the heart muscle from [...]
Cardiac Rehabilitation What is a cardiac rehabilitation program? A cardiac rehabilitation program is a medically supervised program designed to help heart patients recover quickly and improve their overall physical and mental health. You may be referred to a cardiac rehabilitation program after heart surgery, a heart attack, or a diagnosis of heart disease. Programs are [...]
Key Points Cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) is a medically supervised program that helps improve the health and well-being of people who have heart problems. Rehab includes exercise training, education on heart healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress and help you return to an active life. Cardiac rehab involves a long-term commitment from the patient and [...]
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Cardiac Rehabilitation? Benefits Cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) has many benefits. It can: Reduce your overall risk of dying, the risk of future heart problems, and the risk of dying from a heart attack Decrease pain and the need for medicines to treat heart or chest pain Lessen the chance that [...]
What To Expect During Cardiac Rehabilitation During cardiac rehabilitation (rehab), you’ll learn how to: Increase your physical activity and exercise safely Follow a heart healthy diet Reduce risk factors for future heart problems Improve your emotional health The rehab team will work with you to create a plan that meets your needs. Each part of [...]
What To Expect When Starting Cardiac Rehabilitation Your doctor may refer you to cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) during an office visit or while you’re in the hospital recovering from a heart attack or heart surgery. If your doctor doesn’t mention it, ask him or her whether cardiac rehab might benefit you. Rehab activities vary depending on your condition. [...]
Who Needs Cardiac Rehabilitation? People of all ages and ethnic backgrounds can benefit from cardiac rehabilitation (rehab). Rehab may help people who have had: A heart attack Angioplasty (AN-jee-oh-plas-tee) or coronary artery bypass grafting for coronary heart disease Heart valve repair or replacement A heart transplant or a lung transplant Stable angina (an-JI-nuh or AN-juh-nuh) Heart failure Cardiac rehab is [...]
What Is Cardiac Rehabilitation? Cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) is a medically supervised program that helps improve the health and well-being of people who have heart problems. Rehab programs include exercise training, education on heart healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress and help you return to an active life. Cardiac rehab helps people who have heart [...]
Key Points Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe, noninvasive test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the heart. Unlike computed tomography (CT) scans and standard x rays, MRI doesn’t use ionizing radiation or carry any risk of causing cancer. Cardiac MRI is a common test. It [...]
What Are the Risks of Cardiac MRI? Cardiac MRI produces no side effects from the magnetic fields and radio waves. This method of taking pictures of organs and tissues doesn’t carry a risk of causing cancer or birth defects. Serious reactions to the contrast agent used for MRI are very rare. However, side effects are [...]
What Does Cardiac MRI Show? The doctor supervising your scan will provide your doctor with the results of your cardiac MRI. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you. Cardiac MRI can reveal various heart conditions and disorders, such as: Coronary heart disease Damage caused by a heart attack Heart failure Heart valve problems Congenital heart [...]
What To Expect After Cardiac MRI If you didn’t take medicine to help you relax, you’ll be able to return to your normal routine once the cardiac MRI is done. If you did take medicine to help you relax during the test, your doctor will tell you when you can return to your normal routine. [...]
What To Expect During Cardiac MRI MRI machines usually are located at hospitals or special medical imaging facilities. A radiologist (ra-de-OL-o-jist) or other doctor who has special training in medical imaging oversees MRI testing. Cardiac MRI usually takes 45 to 90 minutes, depending on how many pictures are needed. The test may take less time [...]
What To Expect Before Cardiac MRI You’ll be asked to fill out a screening form before having cardiac MRI. The form may ask whether you have had previous surgeries, have any metal objects in your body, or have any medical devices (like a cardiacpacemaker) surgically implanted in your body. Most, but not all, implanted medical [...]
Other Names for Cardiac MRI Heart MRI Cardiovascular MRI Cardiac nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR
What Is Cardiac MRI? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe, noninvasive test that creates detailed pictures of your organs and tissues. “Noninvasive” means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. MRI uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create pictures of your organs and tissues. Unlike computed [...]
Key Points Cardiac computed tomography (CT) is a painless test that uses an x-ray machine to take clear, detailed pictures of your heart. This common test is used to look for problems in the heart. During a cardiac CT scan, the x-ray machine will move around your body in a circle. The machine will take [...]
What Are the Risks of Cardiac CT? Because an x-ray machine is used, cardiac CT involves radiation. Although the amount of radiation used is considered small, it’s similar to the amount of radiation you’re naturally exposed to over a 3-year period. There’s a small chance that cardiac CT will cause cancer because of the radiation involved. The [...]
What Does Cardiac CT Show? Many x-ray pictures are taken during a cardiac CT scan. A computer puts the pictures together to make a three-dimensional (3D) picture of the whole heart. This picture shows the inside of the heart and the structures that surround the heart. Cardiac CT Figure A shows the exterior of the [...]
What To Expect After Cardiac CT After the cardiac CT scan is done, you’ll be able to return to your normal activities. A doctor who has experience with CT will provide your doctor with the results of your scan. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you.
What To Expect During Cardiac CT The cardiac CT scan will take place in a hospital or outpatient office. A doctor who has experience with CT scanning will supervise the test. Your doctor may want to use an iodine-based dye (contrast dye) during the cardiac CT scan. If so, a needle connected to an intravenous [...]
What To Expect Before Cardiac CT Your doctor will tell you how to prepare for the cardiac CT scan. People usually are asked to avoid drinks that contain caffeine before the test. Normally, you’re allowed to drink water, but you’re asked not to eat for 4 hours before the scan. If you take medicine for [...]
Other Names for Cardiac CT CAT scan Coronary artery scan Coronary CT angiography (an-je-OG-ra-fee) CT angiography
What Is Cardiac CT? Cardiac computed tomography (to-MOG-rah-fee), or cardiac CT, is a painless test that uses an x-ray machine to take clear, detailed pictures of the heart. This common test is used to look for problems in the heart. During a cardiac CT scan, an x-ray machine will move around your body in a [...]
Key Points Cardiac catheterization is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat certain heart conditions. A long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter is put into a blood vessel in your arm, groin (upper thigh), or neck and threaded to your heart. Through the catheter, doctors can do diagnostic tests and treatments. Cardiac catheterization [...]
What Are the Risks of Cardiac Catheterization? Cardiac catheterization is a common medical procedure that rarely causes serious problems. However, complications can include: Bleeding, infection, and pain where the catheter was inserted. Damage to blood vessels. Rarely, the catheter may scrape or poke a hole in a blood vessel as it’s threaded to the heart. [...]
What To Expect After Cardiac Catheterization After cardiac catheterization, you will be moved to a special care area. You will rest there for several hours or overnight. During that time, your movement will be limited to avoid bleeding from the site where the catheter was inserted. While you recover in this area, nurses will check [...]
What To Expect During Cardiac Catheterization Cardiac catheterization is done in a hospital. During the procedure, you’ll be kept on your back and awake. This allows you to follow your doctor’s instructions during the procedure. You’ll be given medicine to help you relax, which may make you sleepy. Your doctor will numb the area on [...]
What To Expect Before Cardiac Catheterization Before having cardiac catheterization, discuss with your doctor: How to prepare for the procedure Any medicines you’re taking, and whether you should stop taking them before the procedure Whether you have diabetes, kidney disease, or other conditions that may require taking extra steps during or after the procedure to [...]
Who Needs Cardiac Catheterization? Cardiac catheterization is used to diagnose and/or treat many heart conditions. Doctors may recommend this procedure for various reasons. The most common reason is to evaluate chest pain. Chest pain may be a symptom of coronary heart disease (CHD). Cardiac catheterization can show whether plaque is narrowing or blocking your heart’s arteries. [...]
What Is Cardiac Catheterization? Cardiac catheterization (KATH-e-ter-i-ZA-shun) is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat certain heart conditions. A long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter is put into a blood vessel in your arm, groin (upper thigh), or neck and threaded to your heart. Through the catheter, doctors can do diagnostic tests and [...]
Key Points Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA usually causes death if it’s not treated within minutes. SCA usually occurs when the heart develops an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that causes the heart [...]
How Can Death Due to Sudden Cardiac Arrest Be Prevented? Ways to prevent death due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) differ depending on whether: You’ve already had SCA You’ve never had SCA but are at high risk for the condition You’ve never had SCA and have no known risk factors for the condition For People [...]
How Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Treated? Emergency Treatment Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) requires immediate treatment with a defibrillator. This device sends an electric shock to the heart. The electric shock may restore a normal rhythm to a heart that’s stopped beating. To work well, defibrillation must be done within minutes of SCA. With every minute [...]
Key Points The term “diabetic heart disease” (DHD) refers to heart disease that develops in people who have diabetes. Compared with people who don’t have diabetes, people who have diabetes: Are at higher risk for heart disease Have additional causes of heart disease May develop heart disease at a younger age May have more severe heart [...]
Living With Diabetic Heart Disease Diabetic heart disease (DHD) is heart disease that develops in people who havediabetes. DHD increases the likelihood of earlier and more severe heart problems. People who have DHD also tend to have less success from certain heart disease treatments, such as coronary artery bypass grafting and angioplasty. However, if you follow your [...]
How Can Diabetic Heart Disease Be Prevented? Taking action to control risk factors can help prevent or delay heart disease in people who have diabetes (diabetic heart disease) and in those who don’t. The more risk factors you have, the more your risk increases. To reduce your risk, try to control your risk factors. The good [...]
How Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Diagnosed? Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) happens without warning. It requires immediate emergency treatment. Doctors rarely can diagnose SCA with medical tests as it’s happening. Instead, SCA often is diagnosed after it happens. Doctors do this by ruling out other causes of a person’s sudden collapse. Specialists Involved If you’re at [...]
How Is Diabetic Heart Disease Treated? Treatments for diabetic heart disease (DHD) may include lifestyle changes, medicines, and medical procedures. The goals of treating DHD include: Controlling diabetes and any other heart disease risk factors you have, such asunhealthy blood cholesterol levels and high blood pressure Reducing or relieving heart disease symptoms, such as angina (chest pain or [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Usually, the first sign of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is loss of consciousness (fainting). At the same time, no heartbeat (or pulse) can be felt. Some people may have a racing heartbeat or feel dizzy or lightheaded just before they faint. Within an hour before [...]
How Is Diabetic Heart Disease Diagnosed? Doctors diagnose diabetic heart disease (DHD) based on a person’s signs and symptoms, medical and family histories, a physical exam, and the results of tests and procedures. Doctors and researchers are still trying to find out whether routine testing for DHD will benefit people who have diabetes but no heart [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Heart Disease? Diabetic heart disease (DHD) is heart disease that develops in people who havediabetes. Some people who have DHD have “silent” heart disease. This means that they have no signs or symptoms of heart disease. Diabetes-related nerve damage that blunts heart pain may explain why symptoms [...]
Who Is At Risk for Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Each year, between 250,000 and 450,000 Americans have sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA occurs most often in people in their mid-thirties to mid-forties. It appears to affect men twice as often as women. SCA rarely occurs in children unless they have inherited problems that make them likely [...]
Who Is At Risk for Diabetic Heart Disease? Diabetic heart disease (DHD) is heart disease that develops in people who havediabetes. Diabetes affects heart disease risk in three major ways. First, diabetes by itself is a very serious risk factor for heart disease. Second, when combined with other risk factors, diabetes further raises the risk [...]
Who Is At Risk for Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Each year, between 250,000 and 450,000 Americans have sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA occurs most often in people in their mid-thirties to mid-forties. It appears to affect men twice as often as women. SCA rarely occurs in children unless they have inherited problems that make them likely [...]
What Causes Diabetic Heart Disease? The effects of diabetes on the heart and coronary arteries interact with other heart disease risk factors to cause diabetic heart disease (DHD). Researchers continue to study these processes because all of the details aren’t yet known. At least four complex processes, alone or combined, can lead to DHD. These include [...]
What Causes Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Most cases of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) are due to ventricular fibrillation (v-fib). V-fib is a type of arrhythmia. In v-fib, the ventricles (the heart’s lower chambers) don’t beat normally. Instead, they quiver very rapidly and irregularly. When this happens, the heart pumps little or no blood to the body. V-fib [...]
What Is Diabetic Heart Disease? The term “diabetic heart disease” (DHD) refers to heart disease that develops in people who have diabetes. Compared with people who don’t have diabetes, people who have diabetes: Are at higher risk for heart disease Have additional causes of heart disease May develop heart disease at a younger age May [...]
Key Points Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is surgery used to improve blood flow to the heart. It’s used for people who have severe coronary heart disease(CHD). During CABG, a healthy artery or vein from the body is connected, or grafted, to a blocked coronary (heart) artery. The grafted artery or vein bypasses (that is, goes [...]
What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA usually causes death if it’s not treated within minutes. Overview To understand SCA, it helps to understand how the heart works. [...]
What To Expect After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Recovery in the Hospital After surgery, you’ll typically spend 1 or 2 days in an intensive care unit (ICU). Your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be checked regularly during this time. An intravenous line (IV) will likely be inserted into a vein in your [...]
What To Expect During Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) requires a team of experts. A cardiothoracic surgeon does the surgery with support from an anesthesiologist, perfusionist (heart-lung bypass machine specialist), other surgeons, and nurses. There are several types of CABG. They range from traditional surgery in which the chest is opened [...]
What To Expect Before Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Tests may be done to prepare you for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). For example, you may have blood tests, an EKG (electrocardiogram), echocardiography, achest x ray, cardiac catheterization, and coronary angiography. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about how to prepare for surgery. He or she will advise you about [...]
Key Points An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this [...]
Who Needs Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is used to treat people who have severecoronary heart disease (CHD) that could lead to a heart attack. CABG also may be used to treat people who have heart damage following a heart attack but still have blocked arteries. Your doctor may recommend CABG if [...]
Other Names for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Bypass surgery Coronary artery bypass surgery Heart bypass surgery
What Are the Risks of Using an Automated External Defibrillator? Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are safe to use. There are no reports of AEDs harming bystanders or users. Also, there are no reports of AEDs delivering inappropriate shocks. If someone is having sudden cardiac arrest, using an AED and giving CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can improve the [...]
Types of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Traditional Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting This is the most common type of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). It’s used when at least one major artery needs to be bypassed. During the surgery, the chest bone is opened to access the heart. Medicines are given to stop the heart, and [...]
What Is Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a type of surgery that improves blood flow to the heart. It’s used for people who have severe coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease. CHD is a condition in which a substance called plaque (plak) builds up inside the coronary arteries. [...]
Key Points Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition in which the heart’s mitral valve doesn’t work properly. The flaps of the valve are “floppy” and don’t close tightly. The mitral valve controls the flow of blood between the two chambers on the left side of the heart, the left atrium and the left ventricle. [...]
Living With Mitral Valve Prolapse Most people who have mitral valve prolapse (MVP) have no symptoms or problems, need no treatment, and are able to lead normal, active lives. When present, symptoms and complications most often can be controlled with medicines. Some people may need heart valve surgery to relieve their symptoms and prevent complications. Rarely, [...]
How Can Mitral Valve Prolapse Be Prevented? You can’t prevent mitral valve prolapse (MVP). Most people who have the condition are born with it. Complications from MVP, such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and infective endocarditis (IE), are rare. However, people who are at highest risk for IE may be given antibiotics before some types of surgery and [...]
How Is Mitral Valve Prolapse Treated? Most people who have mitral valve prolapse (MVP) don’t need treatment because they don’t have complications and have few or no symptoms. Even people who do have symptoms may not need treatment. The presence of symptoms doesn’t always mean that the backflow of blood through the valve is significant. [...]
How Is Mitral Valve Prolapse Diagnosed? Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) most often is found during a routine physical exam when your doctor uses a stethoscope to listen to your heart. Your doctor listens for a certain “click” and/or murmur. Stretched valve flaps, as seen in MVP, can make a clicking sound as they shut. If the [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Mitral Valve Prolapse? Most people who have mitral valve prolapse (MVP) aren’t affected by the condition. This is because they don’t have any symptoms or major mitral valve backflow. Among those who do have symptoms, palpitations (strong or rapid heartbeats) are reported most often. Other symptoms include shortness of [...]
Who Is At Risk for Mitral Valve Prolapse? Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) occurs in all age groups and in men and women. MVP with complications or severe symptoms most often occurs in men older than 50. Certain conditions increase the risk for MVP, including: Connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome Scoliosis and other skeletal problems [...]
What Causes Mitral Valve Prolapse? The exact cause of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) isn’t known. Most people who have the condition are born with it. MVP tends to run in families and is more common in people who were born with connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome. The mitral valve can be abnormal in two [...]
Other Names for Mitral Valve Prolapse Balloon mitral valve Barlow’s syndrome Billowing mitral valve Click-murmur syndrome Floppy valve syndrome Myxomatous mitral valve Prolapsing mitral valve syndrome
What Is Mitral Valve Prolapse? Mitral (MI-tral) valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition in which one of the heart’s valves, the mitral valve, doesn’t work properly. The flaps of the valve are “floppy” and don’t close tightly. Much of the time, MVP doesn’t cause any problems. Rarely, blood can leak the wrong way through the [...]
How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator Before using an automated external defibrillator (AED) on someone who you think is having sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), it’s important to check him or her. If you see a person suddenly collapse and lose consciousness, or if you find a person already unconscious, confirm that the person can’t respond. [...]
How Does an Automated External Defibrillator Work? Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are lightweight, battery-operated, portable devices that are easy to use. Sticky pads with sensors (called electrodes) are attached to the chest of the person who is having sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The electrodes transmit information about the person’s heart rhythm to a computer in the [...]
When Should an Automated External Defibrillator Be Used? Using an automated external defibrillator (AED) on a person who is having sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) may save the person’s life. The most common cause of SCA is an arrhythmia called ventricular fibrillation (v-fib). In v-fib, the ventricles (the heart’s lower chambers) don’t beat normally. Instead, they quiver very rapidly and [...]
What Is an Automated External Defibrillator? An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly [...]
Key Points Holes in the heart are simple congenital heart defects. Congenital heart defects are problems with the heart’s structure that are present at birth. These defects change the normal flow of blood through the heart. Your heart has two sides, separated by an inner wall called the septum. An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a [...]
Living With Holes in the Heart The outlook for children who have atrial septal defects (ASDs) or ventricular septal defects (VSDs) is excellent. Advances in treatment allow most children who have these heart defects to live normal, active, and productive lives with no decrease in lifespan. Many children who have these defects need no special [...]
How Are Holes in the Heart Treated? Many holes in the heart don’t need treatment, but some do. Most holes in the heart that need treatment are repaired in infancy or early childhood. Sometimes, adults are treated for holes in the heart if problems develop. The treatment your child receives depends on the type, location, [...]
How Are Holes in the Heart Diagnosed? Doctors usually diagnose holes in the heart based on results from a physical exam and tests and procedures. The exam findings for an atrial septal defect (ASD) often aren’t obvious, so the diagnosis sometimes isn’t made until later childhood or even adulthood. Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) have a [...]
What Causes Holes in the Heart? Mothers of children who are born with atrial septal defects (ASDs), ventricular septal defects (VSDs), or other types of heart defects often think that they did something wrong during the pregnancy to cause the problems. However, most of the time, doctors don’t know why congenital heart defects develop. Heredity may [...]
Types of Holes in the Heart Atrial Septal Defect An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in the part of the septum that separates the atria (the upper chambers of the heart). This hole allows oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to flow into the right atrium instead of flowing into the left ventricle [...]
How the Heart Works To understand holes in the heart, it’s helpful to know how a healthy heart works. Your child’s heart is a muscle about the size of his or her fist. The heart works like a pump and beats 100,000 times a day. The heart has two sides, separated by an inner wall [...]
What Are Holes in the Heart? Holes in the heart are simple congenital (kon-JEN-ih-tal) heart defects. Congenital heart defects are problems with the heart’s structure that are present at birth. These defects change the normal flow of blood through the heart. Your heart has two sides, separated by an inner wall called the septum. With each [...]
What Is Atrial Fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (A-tre-al fi-bri-LA-shun), or AF, is the most common type of arrhythmia(ah-RITH-me-ah). An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. AF occurs when rapid, disorganized electrical signals cause the atria [...]
Key Points Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia. An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. AF occurs when rapid, disorganized electrical signals cause the atria to fibrillate (contract very fast and irregularly). When this happens, the heart’s upper and lower chambers don’t work together as they [...]
Living With Atrial Fibrillation People who have atrial fibrillation (AF)—even permanent AF—can live normal, active lives. If you have AF, ongoing medical care is important. Keep all your medical appointments. Bring all the medicines you’re taking to every doctor and emergency room visit. This will help your doctor know exactly what medicines you’re taking. Follow [...]
How Can Atrial Fibrillation Be Prevented? You may be able to prevent atrial fibrillation (AF) by following a healthy lifestyle and taking steps to lower your risk of heart disease. These steps include: Following a heart healthy diet that’s low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. A healthy diet includes a variety of whole grains, [...]
How Is Atrial Fibrillation Treated? Treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF) depends on how severe or frequent the symptoms are and whether you already have heart disease. General treatment options include medicines, medical procedures, and lifestyle changes. Goals of Treatment The goals of treating AF include: Preventing blood clots from forming, thereby reducing the risk of [...]
How Is Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosed? Some people who have atrial fibrillation (AF) don’t have symptoms. For these people, AF often is found during a physical exam or EKG (electrocardiogram) test done for another purpose. Other times, AF is diagnosed after a person goes to the doctor because of symptoms. To understand why a person has AF [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (AF) usually causes the ventricles to contract faster than normal. When this happens, the ventricles don’t have enough time to fill completely with blood to pump to the lungs and body. This inefficient pumping can cause signs and symptoms, such as: Palpitations (feelings that [...]
Who Is At Risk for Atrial Fibrillation? More than 2 million people in the United States have atrial fibrillation (AF). It affects both men and women. The risk of AF increases as you age. This is mostly because as you get older, your risk for heart disease and other conditions that can cause AF also [...]
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs when the electrical signals traveling through the heart are conducted abnormally and become very rapid and disorganized. This is the result of damage to the heart’s electrical system. The damage most often is the result of other conditions, such as coronary heart disease (also called coronary artery disease) [...]
Other Names for Atrial Fibrillation A fib Auricular fibrillation
Types of Atrial Fibrillation Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation In paroxysmal (par-ok-SIZ-mal) atrial fibrillation (AF), the abnormal electrical signals and rapid heart rate begin suddenly and then stop on their own. Symptoms can be mild or severe and last for seconds, minutes, hours, or days. Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Persistent AF is a condition in which the abnormal [...]
What Is Atrial Fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (A-tre-al fi-bri-LA-shun), or AF, is the most common type of arrhythmia(ah-RITH-me-ah). An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. AF occurs when rapid, disorganized electrical signals cause the atria [...]
Questions and Answers About Chelation Therapy For more than 30 years, people with fatty buildups of plaque in their arteries (atherosclerosis) may have heard about a “miracle cure” called chelation (pronounced “ke-LA’shun”) therapy. But you may not know that the American Heart Association and other medical and scientific groups have spoken out against this treatment. [...]
Nanoparticles plus adult stem cells demolish plaque Abstract P53 Study highlights: A new technique appears to burn away plaque and restore artery function, according to research in pigs. The technique features laser-activated nanoparticles and adult stem cells. American Heart Association Meeting Report RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif., July 19, 2010 – A technique that combines nanotechnology with [...]
Atherosclerosis: What is atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis (ath”er-o-skleh-RO’sis) comes from the Greek words athero (meaning gruel or paste) and sclerosis (hardness). It’s the name of the process in which deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium and other substances build up in the inner lining of an artery. This buildup is called plaque. It usually affects [...]
Key Points Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body. This [...]
Living With Atherosclerosis Better treatments have reduced the number of deaths from atherosclerosis-related diseases. These treatments also have improved the quality of life for people who have these diseases. Adopting a healthy lifestyle may help you prevent or delay atherosclerosis and the problems it can cause. This, along with ongoing medical care, can help you [...]
How Can Atherosclerosis Be Prevented or Delayed? Taking action to control your risk factors can help prevent or delay atherosclerosis and its related diseases. Your risk of atherosclerosis increases with the number of risk factors you have. One step you can take is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Following a healthy diet is an important part [...]
How Is Atherosclerosis Treated? Treatments for atherosclerosis may include lifestyle changes, medicines, and medical procedures or surgery. The goals of treatment include: Relieving symptoms Reducing risk factors in an effort to slow or stop the buildup of plaque Lowering the risk of blood clots forming Widening or bypassing plaque-clogged arteries Preventing atherosclerosis-related diseases Lifestyle Changes [...]
How Is Atherosclerosis Diagnosed? Your doctor will diagnose atherosclerosis based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and results from tests. Specialists Involved If you have atherosclerosis, a primary care doctor, such as an internist or family practitioner, may handle your care. Your doctor may recommend other health care specialists if you need [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis usually doesn’t cause signs and symptoms until it severely narrows or totally blocks an artery. Many people don’t know they have the disease until they have a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke. Some people may have signs and symptoms of the disease. Signs and [...]
Who Is At Risk for Atherosclerosis? Coronary heart disease (atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries) is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. The exact cause of atherosclerosis isn’t known. However, certain traits, conditions, or habits may raise your risk for the disease. These conditions are known as risk [...]
What Causes Atherosclerosis? The exact cause of atherosclerosis isn’t known. However, studies show that atherosclerosis is a slow, complex disease that may start in childhood. It develops faster as you age. Atherosclerosis may start when certain factors damage the inner layers of the arteries. These factors include: Smoking High amounts of certain fats and cholesterol in [...]
Other Names for Atherosclerosis Arteriosclerosis Hardening of the arteries
What Is Atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis) is a disease in which plaque (plak) builds up inside your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows [...]
Antiarrhythmics Commonly Used Brand Names in the United States and Canada: Betapace (sotalol), Cardizem (diltiazem), Cordarone (amiodarone), Covera (verapamil), Inderal (propranolol), Isoptin (verapamil), Pacerone (amiodarone), Ethmozine (moricizine), Lopressor (metoprolol), Mexitil (mexiletine), Multaq (dronedarone), Norpace (disopyramide), Procanbid (procainamide), Pronestyl (procainamide), Quinaglute Dura-tabs (quinidine gluconate), Quinidex Extentabs (quinidine sulfate), Rythmol (propafenone), Tambocor (flecainide), Tenormin (atenolol), Tiazac (diltiazem), Tikosyn [...]
Slow Heartbeat Each heart has it own normal rhythm brought about by the seamless flow of electrical impulses that begins in the heart’s natural “pacemaker” (sinus node). The electricity flows through the upper chambers (atria), crosses the bridge between upper and lower chambers (atrioventricular node) and travels to the lower chambers (ventricles). This passage of [...]
Rapid Heartbeat Each heart has it own normal rhythm brought about by the seamless flow of electrical impulses that begins in the heart’s natural “pacemaker” (sinus node). The electricity flows through the upper chambers (atria), crosses the bridge between upper and lower chambers (atrioventricular node) and travels to the lower chambers (ventricles). This passage of [...]
EP Study Normally, electricity flows throughout the heart in a regular, measured pattern. This electrical system brings about heart muscle contractions. A problem anywhere along the electrical pathway causes an arrhythmia, or heart rhythm disturbance. By accurately diagnosing the precise cause of an arrhythmia, it is possible to select the best possible treatment. Why an [...]
Common Tests for Arrhythmia Several tests can help your doctor diagnose an arrhythmia. Identifying, or documenting, an arrhythmia requires recording the heart’s activity using an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). Small patches or stickers, called electrodes, are placed on different parts of the body. One is put on each arm and leg and several across the [...]
Symptoms, Diagnosis & Monitoring of Arrhythmia Almost everyone has felt their heart beat very fast, felt a “fluttering” in their chest or thought that their heart was “skipping a beat.” These can be signs of arrhythmia, or abnormal or irregular heartbeat. Don’t panic if you’ve occasionally had these symptoms. Arrhythmias are extremely common, especially as [...]
Key Points An arrhythmia is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. Most arrhythmias are harmless, but some can be serious or even life threatening. When the heart rate is too fast, too slow, or irregular, [...]
Living With an Arrhythmia Many arrhythmias are harmless. It’s common to have an occasional extra heartbeat and not even be aware of it, or to only have mild palpitations. People who have harmless arrhythmias can live healthy lives and usually don’t need treatment for their arrhythmias. Even people who have serious arrhythmias often are treated successfully [...]
How Are Arrhythmias Treated? Common arrhythmia treatments include medicines, medical procedures, and surgery. Treatment is needed when an arrhythmia causes serious symptoms, such as dizziness, chest pain, or fainting. Treatment also is needed if an arrhythmia increases your risk for complications, such as heart failure, stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest. Medicines Medicines can be used to speed up [...]
How Are Arrhythmias Diagnosed? Arrhythmias can be hard to diagnose, especially the types that only cause symptoms every once in a while. Doctors use several methods to help diagnose arrhythmias, including medical and family histories, physical exam, and diagnostic tests and procedures. Specialists Involved Doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of an Arrhythmia? Many arrhythmias cause no signs or symptoms. When signs or symptoms are present, the most common ones are: Palpitations (feelings that your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too hard or fast) A slow heartbeat An irregular heartbeat Feeling pauses between heartbeats More serious [...]
Who Is At Risk for an Arrhythmia? Millions of Americans have arrhythmias. They’re very common in older adults. About 2.2 million Americans have atrial fibrillation (a common type of arrhythmia that can cause problems). Most serious arrhythmias affect people older than 60. This is because older adults are more likely to have heart disease and other [...]
What Causes an Arrhythmia? An arrhythmia can occur if the electrical signals that control the heartbeat are delayed or blocked. This can happen if the special nerve cells that produce electrical signals don’t work properly, or if electrical signals don’t travel normally through the heart. An arrhythmia also can occur if another part of the [...]
Other Names for Arrhythmia Dysrhythmia
Types of Arrhythmia The four main types of arrhythmia are premature (extra) beats, supraventricular arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias, and bradyarrhythmias (bray-de-ah-RITH-me-ahs). Premature (Extra) Beats Premature beats are the most common type of arrhythmia. They’re harmless most of the time and often don’t cause any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually feel like fluttering in the [...]
What Is an Arrhythmia? An arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah) is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. A heartbeat that is too fast is called tachycardia (TAK-ih-KAR-de-ah). A heartbeat that is too slow is called bradycardia (bray-de-KAR-de-ah). Most [...]
Stent Procedure: What is a stent and how is one used? A stent is a wire metal mesh tube used to prop open an artery during angioplasty. The stent is collapsed to a small diameter and put over a balloon catheter. It’s then moved into the area of the blockage. When the balloon is inflated, the stent [...]
Atherectomy What is atherectomy? Atherectomy (ath”er-EK’to-me) is a procedure to remove plaque from arteries. Plaque is the buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances in an artery’s inner lining. Coronary atherectomy removes plaque from the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. It uses a laser catheter, or a rotating shaver (“burr” device on the [...]
Angioplasty, Laser What is laser angioplasty? Laser angioplasty is a technique that opens coronary arteries blocked by plaque. Plaque is the build-up of cholesterol, cells and other fatty substances in an artery’s inner lining. In this technique, a thin, flexible plastic tube called a catheter with a laser at its tip is inserted into an artery. [...]
Does it matter what time you have a heart stent? People who have procedures to unclog their heart’s arteries in the morning may do better than those who have them in the afternoon, according to a new study. Those who had the artery-clearing procedure known as angioplasty done in the afternoon were more likely to [...]
Key Points Coronary angioplasty is a procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary (heart) arteries. The procedure improves blood flow to the heart muscle. Over time, a fatty substance called plaque can build up in your arteries, causing them to harden and narrow. When plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, the condition is [...]
What Are the Risks of Coronary Angioplasty? Coronary angioplasty is a common medical procedure. Serious complications don’t occur often. However, they can happen no matter how careful your doctor is or how well he or she does the procedure. Serious complications include: Bleeding from the blood vessel where the catheters were inserted. Blood vessel damage [...]
What To Expect After Coronary Angioplasty After coronary angioplasty, you’ll be moved to a special care unit. You’ll stay there for a few hours or overnight. You must lie still for a few hours to allow the blood vessel in your arm or groin (upper thigh) to seal completely. While you recover, nurses will check [...]
What To Expect During Coronary Angioplasty Coronary angioplasty is done in a special part of the hospital called the cardiac catheterization (KATH-eh-ter-ih-ZA-shun) laboratory. The “cath lab” has special video screens and x-ray machines. Your doctor uses this equipment to see enlarged pictures of the blockages in your coronary arteries. Preparation In the cath lab, you’ll lie [...]
What To Expect Before Coronary Angioplasty Cardiologists do coronary angioplasties at hospitals. Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating heart diseases and conditions. If your angioplasty isn’t done as an emergency treatment, you’ll meet with your cardiologist before the procedure. He or she will go over your medical history (including the medicines you [...]
How Is Coronary Angioplasty Done? Before coronary angioplasty is done, your doctor will need to know the location and extent of the blockages in your coronary (heart) arteries. To find this information, your doctor will use coronary angiography (an-jee-OG-ra-fee). This test uses dye and special x rays to show the insides of your arteries. During angiography, [...]
Who Needs Coronary Angioplasty? Coronary angioplasty is used to restore blood flow to the heart when the coronary (heart) arteries have become narrowed or blocked because of coronary heart disease(CHD). Angioplasty is one of a number of treatments for CHD. Other treatments include medicines and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Your doctor will consider many factors when [...]
Other Names for Coronary Angioplasty Percutaneous coronary intervention Percutaneous intervention Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty Balloon angioplasty Coronary artery angioplasty
What Is Coronary Angioplasty? Coronary angioplasty (AN-jee-oh-plas-tee) is a procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary (heart) arteries. The procedure improves blood flow to the heart muscle. Over time, a fatty substance called plaque (plak) can build up in your arteries, causing them to harden and narrow. This condition is called atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis). Atherosclerosis can [...]
Key Points Coronary angiography is a test that uses dye and special x rays to show the inside of your heart’s arteries (the coronary arteries). Coronary angiography can reveal any blocked or narrowed areas in your coronary arteries that might be limiting blood flow to your heart. A procedure called cardiac catheterization is used to get [...]
What To Expect After Coronary Angiography After coronary angiography, you’ll be moved to a special care area, where you’ll rest and be checked for several hours or overnight. During this time, you’ll need to limit your movement to avoid bleeding from the site where the catheter was inserted. While you recover in the special care [...]
What To Expect During Coronary Angiography During coronary angiography, you’re kept on your back and awake. That way, you can follow your doctor’s instructions during the test. You’ll be given medicine to help you relax. The medicine may make you sleepy. Your doctor will numb the area where the catheter (a small plastic tube) will [...]
What To Expect Before Coronary Angiography Before having coronary angiography, talk to your doctor about: How the test is done and how to prepare for it Any medicines you’re taking, and whether you should stop taking them before the test Whether you have diabetes, kidney disease, or other conditions that may require taking extra steps [...]
Who Needs Coronary Angiography? Your doctor may recommend coronary angiography if you have signs or symptoms ofcoronary heart disease (CHD). Signs and symptoms include: Angina. This is unexplained pain or pressure in your chest. You also may feel it in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina may only happen when you’re active. Emotional [...]
What Is Coronary Angiography? Coronary angiography (an-jee-OG-ra-fee) is a test that uses dye and special x rays to show the inside of your coronary arteries. The coronary arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart. A material called plaque (plak) can build up on the inside walls of the coronary arteries, causing them to narrow. When [...]
Angina Pectoris Treatments What drugs are used to treat angina pectoris? Angina pectoris can be treated with drugs that affect the blood supply to the heart muscle or the heart’s demand for oxygen or both. Drugs that affect the blood supply are coronary vasodilators; they cause blood vessels to relax. When this happens, the opening inside [...]
Cardiac Biomarkers What are they? Cardiac biomarkers are substances that are released into the blood when the heart is damaged. Measurement of these biomarkers is used to help diagnose, evaluate, and monitor patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The symptoms of ACS include chest pain, pressure, nausea, and/or shortness of breath. These symptoms are associated with heart [...]
CK-MB Test (Creatine Kinase- MB) Also known as: CK MB; CPK MB Formal name: Creatine Kinase-MB Related tests: CK, Myoglobin; Troponin; Cardiac biomarkers The Test 1. How is it used? 2. When is it ordered? 3. What does the test result mean? 4. Is there anything else I should know? How is it used? CK–MB levels, along with total [...]
Health Tip: What May Trigger Angina Pain? Here are some potential causes Thursday, August 5, 2010 – Angina is the term for chest pain that occurs when a portion of the heart isn’t getting enough oxygenated blood. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute says the following triggers may be behind angina pain: Coronary heart [...]
Angina and Heart Disease What is angina? Angina (say: “ann-ji-na”) is a squeezing pain or a pressing feeling in the chest. It is most often caused by blockages in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. This is called coronary artery disease, or heart disease. The symptoms you describe to your doctor will help [...]
Key Points Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina is the symptom of an underlying heart condition, usually coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD occurs when a fatty material called plaque builds up on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. Plaque narrows and stiffens the [...]
Living With Angina Angina isn’t a heart attack, but it does increase your risk of having a heart attack. The risk is even higher if you have unstable angina. For these reasons, it’s important that you know: The usual pattern of your angina, if you have it regularly. What medicines you take (keep a list) and [...]
How Can Angina Be Prevented? You can prevent or lower your risk of angina and heart disease by making lifestyle changes and treating related conditions. Making Lifestyle Changes Healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent or delay angina and heart disease. To adopt a healthy lifestyle, you can: Avoid angina triggers Follow a healthy diet Quit [...]
How Is Angina Treated? Treatments for angina include lifestyle changes, medicines, medical procedures, cardiac rehabilitation (rehab), and other therapies. The main goals of treatment are to: Reduce pain and discomfort and how often it occurs Prevent or lower the risk of heart attack and death by treating the underlying heart condition Lifestyle changes and medicines may [...]
How Is Angina Diagnosed? The most important issues to address when you go to the doctor with chest pain are: What’s causing the chest pain Whether you’re having or are about to have a heart attack Angina is a symptom of an underlying heart problem, usually coronary heart disease(CHD). The type of angina pain you have can [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Angina? Pain and discomfort are the main symptoms of angina. Angina often is described as pressure, squeezing, burning, or tightness in the chest. The pain or discomfort usually starts in the chest behind the breastbone. Pain from angina also can occur in the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, throat, [...]
What Causes Angina? Underlying Causes Angina usually is a symptom of coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD reduces blood flow to an area of heart muscle, which causes angina pain. This means that the underlying causes of angina generally are the same as the underlying causes of CHD. Research suggests that CHD starts when certain factors damage [...]
Other Names for Angina Acute coronary syndrome Angina pectoris Chest pain Coronary artery spasms Microvascular angina Prinzmetal’s angina Stable or common angina Unstable angina Variant angina
What Is Angina? Angina (an-JI-nuh or AN-juh-nuh) is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when an area of your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. The pain also may occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain may even feel like [...]
What are peripheral aneurysms? When a weak area of a blood vessel expands or bulges significantly, physicians call it an aneurysm. Most aneurysms occur in the aorta, your body’s largest artery. The aorta carries blood away from your heart to the rest of your body. The part of your aorta located in your chest is [...]
What is duplex ultrasound? Duplex ultrasound combines Doppler flow information and conventional imaging information, sometimes called B-mode, to allow physicians to see the structure of your blood vessels. Duplex ultrasound shows how blood is flowing through your vessels and measures the speed of the flow of blood. It can also be useful to estimate the [...]
What is an angiogram? An angiogram is an imaging test that uses x-rays to view your body’s blood vessels. Physicians often use this test to study narrow, blocked, enlarged, or malformed arteries or veins in many parts of your body, including your brain, heart, abdomen, and legs. When the arteries are studied, the test is [...]
What is surgical aneurysm repair? In surgical aneurysm repair, your vascular surgeon repairs or removes an aneurysm through an incision in your skin. An aneurysm is an enlarged and weakened section of an artery. An aneurysm is a serious health concern, because as it increases in size, it can rupture. Besides rupturing, aneurysms carry another [...]
When Blood Vessels Bulge: All About Aneurysms An aneurysm—a balloon-like bulge in an artery—can develop and grow for years without causing any symptoms. But an aneurysm is a silent threat to your health. If an aneurysm grows too large, it can burst open, or rupture, and lead to dangerous bleeding inside the body. Aneurysms can [...]
Aneurysm Repair An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in an artery. Aneurysms can form in arteries of all sizes. An aneurysm occurs when the pressure of blood passing through part of a weakened artery forces the vessel to bulge outward, forming what you might think of as a blister. Not all aneurysms are life threatening. [...]
Aneurysms and Dissections An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in an artery. Aneurysms can form in arteries of all sizes. An aneurysm occurs when the pressure of blood passing through part of a weakened artery forces the vessel to bulge outward, forming what you might think of as a blister. Not all aneurysms are life-threatening. [...]
Key Points An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in an artery. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your body. Arteries have thick walls to withstand normal blood pressure. However, certain medical problems, genetic conditions, and trauma can damage or injure artery walls. The force of blood pushing against the [...]
Living With an Aneurysm If you have an aortic aneurysm, it’s important to follow your treatment plan and have ongoing medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent many cases of rupture and dissection. Aneurysms can develop and become large before causing any symptoms. Thus, people who are at high risk for aneurysms may need [...]
How Can an Aneurysm Be Prevented? The best way to prevent an aortic aneurysm is to avoid the factors that put you at higher risk for one. You can’t control all of the risk factors for aortic aneurysm, but lifestyle changes can help you reduce some risks. Lifestyle changes include quitting smoking and controlling conditions [...]
How Is an Aneurysm Treated? Aortic aneurysms are treated with medicines and surgery. A small aneurysm that’s found early and isn’t causing symptoms may not need treatment. Other aneurysms need to be treated. The goals of treatment are to: Prevent the aneurysm from growing Prevent or reverse damage to other body structures Prevent or treat [...]
How Is an Aneurysm Diagnosed? If you have aortic aneurysm, but no symptoms, your doctor may find it by chance during a routine physical exam. More often, doctors find aneurysms during tests done for other reasons, such as chest or abdominal pain. If you have an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), your doctor may feel a [...]
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of an Aneurysm? The signs and symptoms of an aortic aneurysm depend on the type of aneurysm, its location, and whether it has ruptured or is affecting other parts of the body. Aneurysms can develop and grow for years without causing any signs or symptoms. They often don’t cause [...]
Who Is At Risk for an Aneurysm? Certain factors put you at higher risk for an aortic aneurysm. These include: Male gender. Men are more likely than women to have abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs)-the most common type of aneurysm. Age. The risk for AAAs increases as you get older. These aneurysms are more likely to [...]
What Causes an Aneurysm? The force of blood pushing against the walls of an artery combined with damage or injury to the artery’s walls can cause an aneurysm. A number of factors can damage and weaken the walls of the aorta and cause aortic aneurysms. Aging, smoking, high blood pressure, and atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis) are all factors that can [...]
Other Names for Aneurysm Abdominal aortic aneurysm Aortic aneurysm Berry aneurysm Brain aneurysm Cerebral aneurysm Peripheral aneurysm Thoracic aortic aneurysm
What Is an Aneurysm? An aneurysm (AN-u-rism) is a balloon-like bulge in an artery. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your body. Arteries have thick walls to withstand normal blood pressure. However, certain medical problems, genetic conditions, and trauma can damage or injure artery walls. The force of blood [...]
A Comprehensive Overview: Abdominal Pain ABDOMINAL PAIN What is abdominal pain? Ordinarily, we are unaware of any of the actions of the organs in the abdomen or any discomfort from activities such as eating, movement of food through the intestines, or bowel movements. Nerves are constantly monitoring activities in the body, and when those messages [...]
Abdominal Pain: Definition Abdominal pain is pain and discomfort that occurs in your abdomen. Your abdomen is the section of your torso between your chest and your pelvis. Other terms used to describe the abdomen are stomach, tummy, gut and belly. Everyone experiences abdominal pain from time to time. Abdominal pain can be mild or [...]
What is erectile dysfunction (ED)? ED is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. ED can be a total inability to achieve an erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. ED is sometimes called impotence, but that word is being used [...]
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