The term heart disease is most often used to describe atherosclerosis of the blood vessels that feed the heart, known as the coronary arteries. However, there are other conditions related to heart health.

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is the inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to maintain proper circulation. Chronic CHF can result from long-term high blood pressure, previous heart attack, disease of the heart valves or heart muscle, or chronic lung conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Common symptoms include weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath, especially on exertion. Other symptoms include chronic nonproductive cough and signs of reduced blood flow, such as swelling of the ankles and blue fingers or toes.

Arrhythmia describes irregular heart beat. Arrhythmias can vary from mild and non-threatening to very serious and life-threatening depending upon the location in the heart and the severity of the disturbance. Arrhythmias of the atrium are considered less serious because the role of the atrium is to fill the ventricle with blood. Ventricular arrhythmias are much more serious. Some arrhythmias can be detected simply by taking a 60-second pulse. Arrhythmias can increase the risk of stroke, early detection is important in preventing more serious conditions.

Mitral valve prolapse refers to a deformity of the valve that separates the left atrium from the left ventricle. This causes the valve to leak and produces a sound referred to as a murmur that can be detected with a stethoscope. The leak can progress to a point that the valve must be repaired or replaced with a mechanical valve.

Cardiomyopathy is disease of the heart muscle that results in a reduced force of contraction and decreased efficiency of circulation. Cardiomyopathy can result from viral infection, metabolic changes, nutritional deficiencies, exposure to toxins, autoimmune conditions, genetic problems or unknown degenerative causes.

Any suspected heart disease should be evaluated by an extensive cardiovascular examination. A physical exam to look for signs of poor blood flow, electrocardiogram to assess electrical function of the heart, and echocardiogram to assess the size, shape and mechanical function of the heart can be used to determine heart health. Early detection and treatment of heart disease is critical to effective treatment. The usual first symptom of heart disease is shortness of breath or chronic cough. Report either of these to your doctor.

Reference: Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, 2nd edition, 1998,M. Murray, ND and J. Pizzorno, ND, Prima Publishing.

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