Health A-Z

Health Info & News

Back to Health Library Print This Page Print

Email to a Friend Email

Heart, section through the middle

Heart, front view

Coronary artery blockage

Heart disease

Definition:

Heart disease is any disorder that affects the heart's ability to function normally. Various forms of heart disease include:

Alternative Names: Cardiovascular disorders

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The most common cause of heart disease is a narrowing of or blockage in the coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle itself (coronary artery disease ). Some heart diseases are present at birth (congenital heart disease ). Other causes include:

Hypertension
Abnormal heart valve function
Abnormal heart rhythm
Weakening of the heart's pumping ability caused by infection or toxins

Symptoms:

Signs and tests:

Treatment:

Support Groups:

Expectations (prognosis):

Complications:

Calling your health care provider:

Prevention:

Review Date: 11/6/2006
Reviewed By: Glenn Gandelman, MD, MPH, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Birthing Center

With the multi-million dollar expansion of The Birth Center more Siouxland families can look forward to welcoming their little miracles in a state-of-the-art, family-centered environment. Click Here

Spirit of Women

Siouxland's exclusive Spirit of Women Hospital, St. Luke's is moving women to good health by providing the motivation, information and support to make positive changes in their lives. Click Here

My Nurse

Siouxland's only 24-hour, seven day a week health information source, is staffed by healthcare professionals trained to answer callers' healthcare questions and offer physician referrals to patients looking for a doctor. Click Here

Upcoming Events

St. Luke's is proud to offer a wide variety of health education classes, health screenings and support groups that can help you live a healthier life. For more information Click Here.