Common Heart Problems

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, which makes many people especially interested in common heart problems. Often times prevention is the most helpful means of preventing heart disease. By familiarizing yourself with the most common heart problems, you will be able to help prevent such ailments within yourself.

1. Coronary Heart Disease. Of heart conditions, this is the most common. Coronary heart disease occurs due to a build up of plaque on the coronary arteries. The arteries become hardened and narrowed thus restricting the flow of blood and oxygen supplied to the heart. The most common symptom of coronary heart disease is Angina- also known as chest pains.
2. Heart Attack. Heart attacks are another common heart problem. Heart attacks are often sudden and result in serious problems if not death. The blood supply to the heart is reduced or greatly diminished therefore causing a heart attack to occur. Often times, brain damage and death can be experienced. 
3. Arrhythmia's.  Arrhythmia's is a condition in which the heart beats fast or slow. It is a irregular heart beat. This is a condition that can be extremely dangerous and result in death.
4. Cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is another common heart problem that occurs due to a weakening of the heart muscles. This may be a result of prior heart attacks, bacterial or viral infections or other causes.
5. Congenital Heart Disease. Congenital heart disease is a common heart problem that occurs during pregnancy or at birth. Often this is a cause of genetic factors but can also be a result of adverse exposure during pregnancy.
6. Rheumatic Heart Disease. Rheumatic heart disease is another common heart problem that results due to rheumatic fever which causes the heart muscles to inflamed and scared.
7. Carotid Artery Disease. Carotid artery disease often produces a stroke. This is a result of a lack of blood to the brain due to the narrowing of cerebral arteries in the neck.
8. Heavy Metals.  Heavy metals or poisoning are a common heart problem. Heavy metals include cadmium, mercury, arsenic and lead. Heavy metals can weaken the heart and restrict blood flow and oxygen.
9. Stroke.  A stroke is another common heart problem that is often experienced in the later years of ones life and caused by the interruption of the blood flow to the brain.  
10. Heart Murmurs. Heart murmurs are a common heart problem that may occur at any age. A heart murmur is basically an additional sound that the heart makes. Although it may not be serious, it is common.