13 Cardiovascular Disorders
Cardiovascular (CV) disorders are any diseases or conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels. These disorders can range from minor to life-threatening, and can involve the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. The most common CV disorders include:
1. Coronary artery disease (CAD): CAD is the most common form of CV disease and occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even a heart attack.
2. Congestive heart failure (CHF): CHF occurs when the heart is not able to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs and other organs.
3. Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias are changes in the normal rhythm of the heartbeat. These can include extra heartbeats, skipped beats, or irregular beats.
4. Cardiac arrest: Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency in which the heart stops beating. It is often caused by an abnormal heart rhythm.
5. Valvular heart disease: Valvular heart disease occurs when the heart valves do not function properly. This can lead to the abnormal backflow of blood.
6. Pericarditis: Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac that surrounds the heart. This can cause chest pain and breathing difficulties.
7. Aortic aneurysm: An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood away from the heart. This can cause the artery to burst, leading to serious health complications.
8. Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and making it difficult for blood to flow.
9. Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood pressure is elevated. This can lead to an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease.
10. Pulmonary embolism: A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, blocking the blood flow. This can cause chest pain, difficulty breathing, and even death.
11. Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. This can cause fever, fatigue, and heart murmurs.
12. Heart attack: A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to the heart is blocked, usually due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even death.
13. Stroke: A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts, causing brain cells to die. This can lead to paralysis, difficulty speaking, and even death.