Category: Heart

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a diagnostic test that involves attaching a nest of wires, connected to pads, on a patient’s chest and limbs. These wires then transmit signals to recording equipment, which allows medical professionals to examine the heart’s electrical activity. By analyzing the recordings, doctors can identify any abnormalities that may indicate...

Ischemic heart disease is a condition characterized by the narrowing of coronary arteries caused by the buildup of plaque, which consists of fatty deposits on the inner lining of the blood vessels. This narrowing hinders the arteries’ ability to supply sufficient blood and oxygen to the cardiac muscle. While chest pain is a common symptom...

In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, the prevalence of heart-related issues has skyrocketed. Not only are older individuals with a family history of heart disease at risk, but even younger generations are experiencing the detrimental effects of unhealthy lifestyles. The risk factors for developing heart disease vary from person to person, depending on their dietary...

Bradycardia, also known as a slow heart rate, occurs when the heart beats below the normal range. Typically, a heart rate of sixty to one hundred beats per minute is considered normal for most individuals. However, a reduced heart rate can potentially lead to complications, although in some cases, a slower heart rate is considered...

An enlarged heart, also known as cardiomegaly, is not a standalone illness, but rather a sign of underlying conditions. However, it can be managed by addressing the root cause. Cardiomegaly occurs when the heart chambers become dilated or when the walls thicken abnormally. While a slightly larger heart can still perform its functions normally, the...

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a type of congenital heart disorder characterized by the development of an extra electrical pathway in the heart. This abnormal pathway causes the heart’s electrical signals to bypass the usual route, resulting in irregularities in heart rate and rhythm. WPW syndrome is considered to be relatively uncommon, affecting approximately two individuals...

Cardiogenic shock is a serious and intricate condition that arises when the heart fails to adequately pump blood to meet the body’s requirements. This medical emergency is highly life-threatening and demands immediate intervention. Cardiogenic shock primarily manifests after a severe heart attack, resulting in heart damage and weakening. Approximately seven percent of individuals who experience...

Small vessel disease, also known as microvascular disease, is a condition that affects the arteries of the heart. The walls of the small arteries sustain damage, making it challenging to diagnose this condition as it presents symptoms similar to heart disease. Doctors use various tests to diagnose small vessel disease, including the discovery of narrowing...

Cardiac cachexia is a condition characterized by significant weight loss in individuals suffering from chronic illness. Commonly referred to as wasting syndrome, it leads to excessive depletion of both fat and muscle mass, accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and reduced appetite. Unlike general cachexia, cardiac cachexia is specific to end-stage cardiac failure. In...

Aortic stenosis is a condition that affects the aortic valve, which is situated on the left side of the heart. This valve plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of blood out of the heart’s left ventricle, responsible for pumping oxygenated blood into the aorta. Unfortunately, aortic stenosis hinders the proper functioning of the...