Cardiology
Cardiology addresses all matters of the heart, from monitoring cholesterol levels to treating heart attack, heart failure, valve problems, arrhythmias, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Learn more about cardiology at the Mount Sinai Health System
Diseases & Conditions
Absent pulmonary valve
Absent pulmonary valve is a rare defect in which the pulmonary valve is either missing or poorly formed. Oxygen-poor blood flows through this valve from the heart to the lungs, where it picks up fresh oxygen...
Diseases & Conditions
Acute coronary syndrome
Acute coronary syndrome is a term for a group of conditions that suddenly stop or severely reduce blood from flowing to the heart muscle. When blood cannot flow to the heart muscle, the heart muscle can...
Diseases & Conditions
Angina
Angina is a type of chest discomfort or pain due to poor blood flow through the blood vessels (coronary vessels) of the heart muscle (myocardium). Typically, the chest pain feels like tightness, heavy pressure...
Diseases & Conditions
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a heart defect. The left coronary artery (LCA), which carries blood to the heart muscle, begins from the pulmonary artery instead of...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic arch syndrome
The aortic arch is the top part of the main artery carrying blood away from the heart. Aortic arch syndrome refers to a group of signs and symptoms associated with structural problems in the arteries that...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic dissection
Aortic dissection is a serious condition in which there is a tear in the wall of the major artery carrying blood out of the heart (aorta). As the tear extends along the wall of the aorta, blood can flow...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic regurgitation
Aortic regurgitation is a heart valve disease in which the aortic valve does not close tightly. This allows blood to flow from the aorta (the largest blood vessel) into the left ventricle (a chamber of...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic stenosis
The aorta is the main artery that carries blood out of the heart to the rest of the body. Blood flows out of the heart and into the aorta through the aortic valve. In people with aortic stenosis, the aortic...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortopulmonary window
Aortopulmonary window is a rare heart defect in which there is a hole connecting the major artery taking blood from the heart to the body (the aorta) and the one taking blood from the heart to the lungs...
Diseases & Conditions
Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is a disorder of the heart rate (pulse) or heart rhythm. The heart can beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly. heart rate An arrhythmia can be harmless, a sign...
Diseases & Conditions
Arterial embolism
Arterial embolism refers to a clot (embolus) that has come from another part of the body and causes a sudden interruption of blood flow to an organ or body part.
Diseases & Conditions
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, sometimes called "hardening of the arteries," occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. These deposits are called plaques. Over time, these plaques...
Diseases & Conditions
Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) and atrial flutter are common types of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) which affect the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. In atrial flutter, the heart beats too fast,...
Diseases & Conditions
Atrial myxoma
An atrial myxoma is a noncancerous tumor in the upper left or right side of the heart. It most often grows on the wall that separates the two sides of the heart. This wall is called the atrial septum.
Diseases & Conditions
Atrial septal defect (ASD)
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a heart defect that is present at birth (congenital). As a baby develops in the womb, a wall (septum) forms that divides the upper chamber into a left and right atrium. When...
Diseases & Conditions
Bicuspid aortic valve
A bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is an aortic valve that only has two leaflets, instead of three. The aortic valve regulates blood flow from the heart into the aorta. The aorta is the major blood vessel that...
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiac amyloidosis
Cardiac amyloidosis is a disorder caused by deposits of an abnormal protein (amyloid) in the heart tissue. These deposits make it hard for the heart to work properly.
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiac arrest
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. When this happens, blood flow to the brain and the rest of the body also stops. Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. If it is not treated within...
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiac tamponade
Cardiac tamponade is pressure on the heart that occurs when blood or fluid builds up in the space between the heart muscle and the outer covering sac (pericardium) of the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiogenic shock
Cardiogenic shock takes place when the heart is unable to supply enough blood and oxygen to the organs of the body.
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is disease in which the heart muscle becomes weakened, stretched, or has another structural problem. It often contributes to the heart's inability to pump or function well. Many people with...
Diseases & Conditions
Chagas disease
Chagas disease is an illness caused by tiny parasites and spread by insects. The disease is common in South and Central America.
Diseases & Conditions
Chylomicronemia syndrome
Chylomicronemia syndrome is a disorder in which the body does not break down fats (lipids) correctly. This causes fat particles called chylomicrons to build up in the blood. The disorder is passed down...
Diseases & Conditions
Coarctation of the aorta
The aorta is a larger artery that carries blood from the heart to the vessels that supply the rest of the body with blood. If part of the aorta is narrowed, it is hard for blood to pass through the artery...
Diseases & Conditions
Congenital heart disease
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a problem with the heart's structure and function that is present at birth.
Diseases & Conditions
Coronary artery fistula
Coronary artery fistula is an abnormal connection between one of the coronary arteries and a heart chamber or another blood vessel. The coronary arteries are blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to...
Diseases & Conditions
Coronary artery spasm
The coronary arteries supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Coronary artery spasm is a brief, sudden narrowing of one of these arteries.
Diseases & Conditions
Coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease is a narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is also called coronary artery disease.
Diseases & Conditions
Culture-negative endocarditis
Culture-negative endocarditis is an infection and inflammation of the lining of one or more heart valves, but in which no endocarditis-causing germs can be found in a routine blood culture. This is because...
Diseases & Conditions
Cyanotic heart disease
Cyanotic heart disease refers to a group of many different heart defects that are present at birth (congenital). They result in a low blood oxygen level. Cyanosis refers to a bluish color of the skin and...
Diseases & Conditions
Dextrocardia
Dextrocardia is a condition in which the heart is pointed toward the right side of the chest. Normally, the heart points toward the left. The condition is present at birth (congenital).
Diseases & Conditions
Digitalis toxicity
Digitalis is a medicine that is used to treat certain heart conditions. Digitalis toxicity can be a side effect of digitalis therapy. It may occur when you take too much of the drug at one time. It can...
Diseases & Conditions
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is disease in which the heart muscle becomes weakened, stretched, or has another structural problem. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged...
Diseases & Conditions
Double aortic arch
Double aortic arch is an abnormal formation of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It is a congenital problem, which means that it is present at birth...
Diseases & Conditions
Double inlet left ventricle
Double inlet left ventricle (DILV) is a heart defect that is present from birth (congenital). It affects the valves and chambers of the heart. Babies born with this condition have only one working pumping...
Diseases & Conditions
Double outlet right ventricle
Double outlet right ventricle (DORV) is a heart disease that is present from birth (congenital). The aorta connects to the right ventricle (RV, the chamber of the heart that pumps oxygen-poor blood to the...
Diseases & Conditions
Ebstein anomaly
Ebstein anomaly is a rare heart defect in which parts of the tricuspid valve are abnormal. The tricuspid valve separates the right lower heart chamber (right ventricle) from the right upper heart chamber...
Diseases & Conditions
Ectopic heartbeat
Ectopic heartbeats are changes in a heartbeat that is otherwise normal. These changes lead to extra or skipped heartbeats. There is often not a clear cause for these changes. They are common. The two most...
Diseases & Conditions
Eisenmenger syndrome
Eisenmenger syndrome is a condition that affects blood flow from the heart to the lungs in some people who were born with structural problems of the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Endocardial cushion defect
Endocardial cushion defect (ECD) is an abnormal heart condition. The walls separating all four chambers of the heart are poorly formed or absent. Also, the valves separating the upper and lower chambers...
Diseases & Conditions
Endocarditis
Endocarditis is inflammation of the inside lining of the heart chambers and heart valves (endocardium). It is caused by a bacterial or, rarely, a fungal infection.
Diseases & Conditions
Endocarditis - children
The inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves is called the endocardium. Endocarditis occurs when this tissue becomes swollen or inflamed, most often due to infection of one of the heart valves...
Diseases & Conditions
Familial combined hyperlipidemia
Familial combined hyperlipidemia is a disorder that is passed down through families. It causes high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. triglyceride
Diseases & Conditions
Familial dysbetalipoproteinemia
Familial dysbetalipoproteinemia is a disorder passed down through families. It causes high amounts of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Familial hypercholesterolemia
Familial hypercholesterolemia is a disorder that is passed down through families. It causes LDL (bad) cholesterol level to be very high. The condition begins at birth and can cause heart attacks at an early...
Diseases & Conditions
Familial hypertriglyceridemia
Familial hypertriglyceridemia is a common disorder passed down through families. It causes a higher-than-normal level of triglycerides (a type of fat) in a person's blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Fibrinolysis - primary or secondary
Fibrinolysis is a normal body process. It prevents blood clots that occur naturally from growing and causing problems. Primary fibrinolysis refers to the normal breakdown of clots. Secondary fibrinolysis...
Diseases & Conditions
Heart attack
Most heart attacks are caused by a blood clot that blocks one of the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries bring blood and oxygen to the heart. If the blood flow is blocked, the heart is starved of oxygen...
Diseases & Conditions
Heart block
Heart block is a problem in the electrical signals in the heart. Normally, the heart beat starts in an area in the top chambers of the heart (atria). This area is the heart's pacemaker. The electrical signals...
Diseases & Conditions
Heart failure
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body efficiently. This causes symptoms to occur throughout the body.
Diseases & Conditions
Heart failure in children
Heart failure is a condition that results when the heart is no longer able to effectively pump oxygen-rich blood to meet the oxygen needs of the body's tissues and organs. Heart failure can occur when...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that your body needs to work properly. Too much bad cholesterol in your blood can increase your chance of getting heart disease, stroke, and other problems. heart...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure - children
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood to your body. High blood pressure (hypertension) is an increase in this force. This article...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure - medicine-related
Drug-induced hypertension is high blood pressure caused by a chemical substance or medicine. high blood pressure
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure in adults – hypertension
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood to your body. Hypertension is the medical term used to describe high blood pressure. Untreated...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure in infants
High blood pressure (hypertension) is an increase in the force of blood against the arteries in the body. This article focuses on high blood pressure in infants.
Diseases & Conditions
High cholesterol - children
Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that the body needs to work properly. There are many types of cholesterol. The ones talked about most are: Total cholesterol - all the cholesterols combinedHigh...
Diseases & Conditions
High potassium level
High potassium level is a problem in which the amount of potassium in the blood is higher than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyperkalemia.
Diseases & Conditions
Hypertensive heart disease
Hypertensive heart disease refers to heart problems that occur because of high blood pressure that is present over a long time.
Diseases & Conditions
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes thick. Sometimes, only one part of the heart is thicker than the other parts. The thickening can make it harder for blood...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome occurs when parts of the left side of the heart (mitral valve, left ventricle, aortic valve, and aorta) do not develop completely. The condition is present at birth (congenital...
Diseases & Conditions
Marfan syndrome
Marfan syndrome is a disorder of connective tissue. This is the tissue that strengthens the body's structures. Disorders of connective tissue affect the skeletal system, cardiovascular system, eyes, and...
Diseases & Conditions
Mitral stenosis
Mitral stenosis is a disorder in which the mitral valve does not fully open. This restricts the flow of blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Mitral valve prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse is a heart problem involving the mitral valve, which separates the upper and lower chambers of the left side of the heart. In this condition, the valve does not close normally.
Diseases & Conditions
Mitral valve regurgitation
Mitral regurgitation is a disorder in which the mitral valve on the left side of the heart does not close properly. Regurgitation means leaking from a valve that does not close all the way.
Diseases & Conditions
Multifocal atrial tachycardia
Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is a rapid heart rate. It occurs when too many signals (electrical impulses) are sent from the upper heart (atria) to the lower heart (ventricles). rapid heart rate
Diseases & Conditions
Myocarditis
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. The condition is called pediatric myocarditis when it occurs in children. pediatric myocarditis
Diseases & Conditions
Myocarditis - pediatric
Pediatric myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle in an infant or young child.
Diseases & Conditions
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is episodes of a rapid heart rate that start in a part of the heart above the ventricles. "Paroxysmal" means from time to time. rapid heart rate
Diseases & Conditions
Patent ductus arteriosus
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a condition in which the ductus arteriosus does not close. The word "patent" means open. The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that allows blood to go around the baby...
Diseases & Conditions
Patent foramen ovale
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth, but most often closes shortly after being born. PFO is what...
Diseases & Conditions
Pericarditis
Pericarditis is a condition in which the sac-like covering around the heart (pericardium) becomes inflamed.
Diseases & Conditions
Pericarditis - after heart attack
Pericarditis is inflammation and swelling of the covering of the heart (pericardium). It can occur in the days or weeks following a heart attack. heart attack
Diseases & Conditions
Pericarditis - constrictive
Constrictive pericarditis is a process in which the sac-like covering of the heart (the pericardium) becomes thickened and scarred. Related conditions include: Bacterial pericarditisPericarditisPericarditis...
Diseases & Conditions
Peripartum cardiomyopathy
Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare disorder in which a pregnant woman's heart becomes weakened and enlarged. It develops during the last month of pregnancy, or within 5 months after the baby is born.
Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary atresia
Pulmonary atresia is a form of heart disease in which the pulmonary valve does not form properly. It is present from birth (congenital heart disease). The pulmonary valve is an opening on the right side...
Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary edema
Pulmonary edema is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the lungs. This buildup of fluid leads to shortness of breath.
Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonic valve stenosis
Pulmonic stenosis is a heart valve disorder that involves the pulmonary valve. This is the valve separating the right ventricle (one of the chambers in the heart) and the pulmonary artery. The pulmonary...
Diseases & Conditions
Restrictive cardiomyopathy
Restrictive cardiomyopathy refers to a set of changes in how the heart muscle functions. These changes cause the heart to fill poorly (more common) or squeeze poorly (less common). Sometimes, both problems...
Diseases & Conditions
Sick sinus syndrome
Normally, the heartbeat starts in an area in the top chambers of the heart (atria). This area is the heart's pacemaker. It is called the sinoatrial node, sinus node or SA node. Its role is to keep the heart...
Diseases & Conditions
Stable angina
Stable angina is chest pain or discomfort that most often occurs with activity or emotional stress. Angina is due to poor blood flow through the blood vessels in the heart called the coronary arteries....
Diseases & Conditions
Tetralogy of Fallot
Tetralogy of Fallot is a type of congenital heart defect. Congenital means that it is present at birth.
Diseases & Conditions
Thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis is swelling (inflammation) of a vein. A blood clot (thrombus) in the vein is the most common cause of this swelling. blood clot
Diseases & Conditions
Total anomalous pulmonary venous return
Total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) is a heart disease in which the 4 veins that take blood from the lungs to the heart do not attach normally to the left atrium (left upper chamber of the heart...
Diseases & Conditions
Transposition of the great arteries
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a heart defect that occurs from birth (congenital). The two major arteries that carry blood away from the heart -- the aorta and the pulmonary artery -- are...
Diseases & Conditions
Tricuspid atresia
Tricuspid atresia is a type of heart disease that is present at birth (congenital heart disease), in which the tricuspid heart valve is missing or abnormally developed. The defect blocks blood flow from...
Diseases & Conditions
Tricuspid regurgitation
Blood that flows between different chambers of your heart must pass through a heart valve. These valves open up enough so that blood can flow through. They then close, keeping blood from flowing backward...
Diseases & Conditions
Unstable angina
Unstable angina is a condition in which your heart doesn't get enough blood flow and oxygen. It may lead to a heart attack. Angina is a type of chest discomfort due to poor blood flow through the blood...
Diseases & Conditions
Vascular ring
Vascular ring is an abnormal formation of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It is a congenital problem, which means it is present at birth.
Diseases & Conditions
Venous insufficiency
Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins have problems sending blood from the legs back to the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Ventricular fibrillation
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a severely abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that is life threatening. arrhythmia
Diseases & Conditions
Ventricular septal defect
Ventricular septal defect is a hole in the wall that separates the right and left ventricles of the heart. Ventricular septal defect is one of the most common congenital (present from birth) heart defects...
Diseases & Conditions
Ventricular tachycardia
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heartbeat that starts in the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles).
Diseases & Conditions
Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW)
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a condition in which there is an extra electrical pathway in the heart that leads to periods of rapid heart rate (tachycardia). tachycardia WPW syndrome is one of...
Special Topics
Auscultation
Auscultation is listening to the sounds of the body during a physical examination. physical examination
Special Topics
Blood pressure monitors for home
Your health care provider may ask you to keep track of your blood pressure at home. To do this, you will need to get home blood pressure monitor. The monitor you choose should be good quality and fit well...
Special Topics
Cardioversion
Cardioversion is a method to bring an abnormal heart rhythm back to normal.
Special Topics
DASH diet to lower high blood pressure
Special Topics
Facts about monounsaturated fats
Monounsaturated fatty acid; MUFA; Oleic acid; Cholesterol - monounsaturated fat; Atherosclerosis - monounsaturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - monounsaturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - monounsaturated...
Special Topics
Facts about polyunsaturated fats
Polyunsaturated fatty acid; PUFA; Cholesterol - polyunsaturated fat; Atherosclerosis - polyunsaturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - polyunsaturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - polyunsaturated fat; Hypercholesterolemia...
Special Topics
Facts about saturated fats
Cholesterol - saturated fat; Atherosclerosis - saturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - saturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - saturated fat; Hypercholesterolemia - saturated fat; Coronary artery disease - saturated...
Special Topics
Facts about trans fats
Trans fatty acids; Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs); Cholesterol - trans fats; Hyperlipidemia - trans fats; Atherosclerosis - trans fat; Hardening of the arteries - trans fat; Hypercholesterolemia - trans...
Special Topics
Fibrates
Antilipemic agent; Fenofibrate (Antara, Fenoglide, Lipofen, Tricor, and Triglide); Gemfibrozil (Lopid); Fenofibric acid (Trilipix); Hyperlipidemia - fibrates; Hardening of the arteries - fibrates; Cholesterol...
Special Topics
Give your heart a workout
Exercise - heart workout; CAD prevention - workout; Cardiovascular disease prevention - workout
Special Topics
Heart and vascular services
The body's cardiovascular, or circulatory system, is made of the heart, blood, and blood vessels (arteries and veins). Heart and vascular services refers to the branch of medicine that focuses on the cardiovascular...
Special Topics
Heart disease - resources
The following organizations are good resources for information on heart disease: American Heart Association -- www.heart.orgCenters for Disease Control and Prevention -- www.cdc.gov/heartdiseaseNational...
Special Topics
Heart disease and women
People often do not consider heart disease a woman's disease. Yet cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women over age 25. It kills nearly twice as many women in the United States as all types...
Special Topics
High blood pressure and diet
Making changes to your diet is a proven way to help control high blood pressure. These changes can also help you lose weight and lower your chance of heart disease and stroke. high blood pressure Your health...
Special Topics
High blood pressure medications
Treating high blood pressure will help prevent problems such as heart disease, stroke, loss of eyesight, chronic kidney disease, and other blood vessel diseases. high blood pressure You may need to take...
Special Topics
How to take statins
Antilipemic Agent; HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors; Atorvastatin (Lipitor); Simvastatin (Zocor); Lovastatin (Mevacor, Altoprev); Pitavastatin (Livalo, Zypitamag); Pravastatin (Pravachol); Rosuvastatin (Crestor...
Special Topics
Niacin for cholesterol
Antilipemic agent; Vitamin B3; Nicotinic acid; Niaspan; Niacor; Hyperlipidemia - niacin; Hardening of the arteries - niacin; Cholesterol - niacin; Hypercholesterolemia - niacin; Dyslipidemia - niacin
Special Topics
Omega-3 fats - Good for your heart
Cholesterol - omega-3s; Atherosclerosis - omega-3s; Hardening of the arteries - omega-3s; Coronary artery disease - omega-3s; Heart disease - omega-3s
Special Topics
Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genes affect the way medicines work in a person. Your health care provider can use the information from pharmacogenetic testing to prescribe medicines that will work...
Special Topics
Stress and your heart
Coronary heart disease - stress; Coronary artery disease - stress
Special Topics
Thrombolytic drugs for heart attack
Small blood vessels called coronary arteries supply oxygen carrying blood to the heart muscle. A heart attack can occur if a blood clot stops the flow of blood through one of these arteries. Unstable angina...
Special Topics
Thrombolytic therapy
Thrombolytic therapy is the use of medicines to break up or dissolve blood clots, which are the main cause of both heart attacks and stroke.
Special Topics
Understanding cardiovascular disease
Special Topics
Wine and heart health
Some studies have shown that adults who drink light to moderate amounts of alcohol may be less likely to develop heart disease than those who do not drink at all or are heavy drinkers. However, people who...
Surgery
Angioplasty and stent placement - carotid artery
The blood vessels that bring blood to your brain and face are called the carotid arteries. You have a carotid artery on each side of your neck. The blood flow in this artery can become partly or totally...
Surgery
Angioplasty and stent placement - heart
Angioplasty is a procedure to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. These blood vessels are called the coronary arteries. A coronary artery stent is a small, metal mesh...
Surgery
Aortic valve surgery - minimally invasive
Blood flows out of your heart and into a large blood vessel called the aorta. The aortic valve separates the heart and aorta. The aortic valve opens so blood can flow out. It then closes to keep blood from...
Surgery
Aortic valve surgery - open
Blood flows out of your heart and into a large blood vessel called the aorta. The aortic valve separates the heart and aorta. The aortic valve opens so blood can flow out. It then closes to keep blood from...
Surgery
Cardiac ablation procedures
Cardiac ablation is a procedure that is used to scar small areas in your heart that may be involved in your heart rhythm problems. This can prevent the abnormal electrical signals or rhythms from moving...
Surgery
Congenital heart defect - corrective surgery
Congenital heart defect corrective surgery fixes or treats a heart defect that a child is born with. A baby born with one or more heart defects has congenital heart disease. Surgery is needed if the defect...
Surgery
Heart bypass surgery
Heart bypass surgery creates a new route, called a bypass, for blood and oxygen to go around a blockage to reach your heart.
Surgery
Heart bypass surgery - minimally invasive
Heart bypass surgery creates a new route, called a bypass, for blood and oxygen to reach your heart. Minimally invasive coronary (heart) artery bypass can be done without stopping the heart. Therefore,...
Surgery
Heart pacemaker
A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device. This device senses when your heart is beating too slowly. It sends a signal to your heart that makes your heart beat at the correct pace. too slowly
Surgery
Heart transplant
A heart transplant is surgery to remove a damaged or diseased heart and replace it with a healthy donor heart.
Surgery
Heart valve surgery
Heart valve surgery is used to repair or replace diseased heart valves. Blood that flows between different chambers of your heart must flow through a heart valve. Blood that flows out of your heart into...
Surgery
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a device that detects a life-threatening, rapid heartbeat. This abnormal heartbeat is called an arrhythmia. If it occurs, the ICD quickly sends an electrical...
Surgery
Mitral valve surgery - minimally invasive
Mitral valve surgery is surgery to either repair or replace the mitral valve in your heart. Blood flows from the lungs and enters a pumping chamber of the heart called the left atrium. The blood then flows...
Surgery
Mitral valve surgery - open
Mitral valve surgery is used to repair or replace the mitral valve in your heart. Blood flows between the different chambers in the heart through valves that connect the chambers. One of these is the mitral...
Surgery
Open heart surgery
Heart surgery is any surgery done on the heart muscle, valves, arteries, or the aorta and other large arteries connected to the heart. The term "open heart surgery" means that you are connected to a heart...
Surgery
Pediatric heart surgery
Heart surgery in children is done to repair heart defects a child is born with (congenital heart defects) and heart diseases a child gets after birth that need surgery. The surgery is needed for the child...
Surgery
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a procedure used to replace the aortic valve without opening the chest. It is used to treat adults who aren't healthy enough for regular valve surgery. The...
Surgery
Ventricular assist device
Ventricular assist devices (VADs) help your heart pump blood from one of the main pumping chambers to the rest of your body or to the other side of the heart. These pumps are implanted in your body. In...
Tests
Apolipoprotein B100
Apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100) is a protein that plays a role in moving cholesterol around your body. It is a form of low density lipoprotein (LDL). Variants in the gene that directs the body's production...
Tests
Apolipoprotein CII
Apolipoprotein CII (apoCII) is a protein found in large fat particles that the gastrointestinal tract absorbs. It is also found in very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), which is made up of mostly triglycerides...
Tests
Arteriogram
An arteriogram is an imaging test that uses x-rays and a special dye to see inside the arteries. It can be used to view arteries in the heart, brain, kidney, and other parts of the body. Related tests include...
Tests
Brain natriuretic peptide test
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test is a blood test that measures levels of the protein BNP that is made by your heart and blood vessels. BNP levels are higher than normal when you have heart failure.
Tests
CPK isoenzymes test
The creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes test measures the different forms of CPK in the blood. CPK is an enzyme found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle.
Tests
CT angiography – chest
CT angiography combines a CT scan with the injection of dye. This technique is able to create pictures of the blood vessels in the chest and upper abdomen. CT stands for computed tomography.
Tests
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac catheterization involves passing a thin flexible tube (catheter) into the right or left side of the heart. The catheter is most often inserted from the groin or the arm.
Tests
Cardiac event monitors
A cardiac event monitor is a device that you control to record the electrical activity of your heart (ECG). This device is about the size of a pager. It records your heart rate and rhythm. Cardiac event...
Tests
Coronary angiography
Coronary angiography is a procedure that uses a special dye (contrast material) and x-rays to see how blood flows through the arteries in your heart.
Tests
Creatine phosphokinase test
Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme in the body. It is found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. This article discusses the test to measure the amount of CPK in the blood. enzyme
Tests
Digoxin test
A digoxin test checks how much digoxin you have in your blood. Digoxin is a type of medicine called a cardiac glycoside. It is used to treat certain heart problems, although much less often than in the...
Tests
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. The picture and information it produces is more detailed than a standard x-ray image. An echocardiogram does not expose...
Tests
Echocardiogram - children
An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. It is used with children to help diagnose defects of the heart that are present at birth (congenital). The picture is more...
Tests
Ecocardiografía de esfuerzo
Es un examen en el que se utilizan imágenes por ultrasonido para mostrar qué tan bien está funcionando el miocardio para bombear sangre al cuerpo mientras hace ejercicio en un entorno controlado. En la...
Tests
Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
Tests
Exercise stress test
An exercise stress test is used to measure the effect of exercise on your heart.
Tests
Fetal echocardiography
Fetal echocardiography is a test that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to evaluate the baby's heart for problems before birth. ultrasound
Tests
Fibrin degradation products blood test
Fibrin degradation products (FDPs) are the substances left behind when clots dissolve in the blood. A blood test can be done to measure these products.
Tests
HDL test
The high-density lipoprotein (HDL) test is a blood test to measure the amount of HDL cholesterol in your blood. HDL is a type of fat (lipid) in your blood. HDL is called "good" cholesterol because it helps...
Tests
Heart CT scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create detailed pictures of the heart and its blood vessels. This test is called a coronary calcium scan when it is...
Tests
Heart MRI
Heart magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging method that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the heart. It does not use radiation (x-rays). magnetic resonance imaging Single magnetic...
Tests
Heart PET scan
A heart positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that uses a radioactive substance called a tracer to look for disease or poor blood flow in the heart. Unlike magnetic resonance imaging...
Tests
His bundle electrography
His bundle electrography is a test that measures electrical activity in a part of the heart that carries the signals that control the time between heartbeats (contractions).
Tests
Holter monitor (24h)
A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart's rhythms. The monitor is worn for 24 to 48 hours during normal activity.
Tests
Intracardiac electrophysiology study (EPS)
Intracardiac electrophysiology study (EPS) is a test to look at how well the heart's electrical signals are working. It is used to evaluate abnormal heartbeats or heart rhythms. heart rhythms
Tests
LDL test
The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) test is a blood test to measure the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood. LDL is a type of fat (lipid) in your blood. LDL is called "bad" cholesterol because it can...
Tests
Lactic acid test
Lactic acid is mainly produced in muscle cells and red blood cells. It forms when the body breaks down carbohydrates to use for energy when oxygen levels are low. Times when your body's oxygen level might...
Tests
Left heart catheterization
Left heart catheterization is the passage of a thin flexible tube (catheter) into the left side of the heart. It is done to diagnose or treat certain heart problems.
Tests
Left heart ventricular angiography
Left heart ventricular angiography is a procedure to look at the left-sided heart chambers and the function of the left-sided valves. It is sometimes combined with coronary angiography.
Tests
Lipid profile test
Lipids are fatty, wax-like substances found in the body. Your body needs lipids for proper body functions, growth, and energy. Two important types of lipids found in the blood are cholesterol and triglycerides...
Tests
Lipoprotein-a
Lipoproteins are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. proteins A blood test can be done to measure a specific type of lipoprotein called lipoprotein...
Tests
Myocardial biopsy
Myocardial biopsy is the removal of a small piece of heart muscle for examination.
Tests
Nuclear stress test
Nuclear stress test is an imaging method that uses radioactive material to show how well blood flows into the heart muscle, both at rest and during activity.
Tests
Nuclear ventriculography
Nuclear ventriculography is a test that uses radioactive materials called tracers to show the heart chambers. The procedure is noninvasive. The instruments do not directly touch the heart. noninvasive
Tests
Pericardial fluid Gram stain
Pericardial fluid Gram stain is a method of staining a sample of fluid taken from the pericardium to diagnose a bacterial infection. This is the sac surrounding the heart. The Gram stain method is one of...
Tests
Pericardial fluid culture
Pericardial fluid culture is a test performed on a sample of fluid from the sac surrounding the heart. It is done to identify organisms that cause infection. Pericardial fluid Gram stain is a related topic...
Tests
Pericardiocentesis
Pericardiocentesis is a procedure that uses a needle to remove fluid from the pericardial sac. This is the tissue that surrounds the heart.
Tests
Pharmacogenetic testing
Pharmacogenetic testing provides information about your genes and how they control your response to certain medicines. Your genes can affect the desired result of a drug. Your provider can use the information...
Tests
Right heart ventricular angiography
Right heart ventricular angiography is a test that images the right chambers (atrium and ventricle) of the heart.
Tests
Stress echocardiography
Stress echocardiography is a test that uses ultrasound imaging to show how well your heart muscle is working to pump blood to your body while you exercise in a controlled setting. It is most often used...
Tests
Swan-Ganz - right heart catheterization
Swan-Ganz catheterization (also called right heart catheterization or pulmonary artery catheterization) is the passing of a thin tube (catheter) into the right side of the heart and the arteries leading...
Tests
Total cholesterol
Total cholesterol is a blood test to measure all types of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a fatty, wax-like substance found in all parts of the body. The cholesterol test is often done as part...
Tests
Triglyceride level
The triglyceride level is a blood test to measure the amount of triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat. Your body makes some triglycerides. Triglycerides also come from the food you...
Tests
Troponin test
A troponin test measures the levels of troponin T or troponin I proteins in the blood. These proteins are released when the heart muscle has been damaged, such as occurs with a heart attack. The more damage...
Tests
VLDL test
VLDL stands for very low density lipoprotein. Lipoproteins are made up of cholesterol, triglycerides, and proteins. They move cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids (fats) around the body. cholesterol...
Self-Care Instructions
ACE inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
Diseases & Conditions
Absent pulmonary valve
Absent pulmonary valve is a rare defect in which the pulmonary valve is either missing or poorly formed. Oxygen-poor blood flows through this valve from the heart to the lungs, where it picks up fresh oxygen...
Diseases & Conditions
Acute coronary syndrome
Acute coronary syndrome is a term for a group of conditions that suddenly stop or severely reduce blood from flowing to the heart muscle. When blood cannot flow to the heart muscle, the heart muscle can...
Diseases & Conditions
Angina
Angina is a type of chest discomfort or pain due to poor blood flow through the blood vessels (coronary vessels) of the heart muscle (myocardium). Typically, the chest pain feels like tightness, heavy pressure...
Discharge Instructions
Angina - discharge
Chest pain - discharge; Stable angina - discharge; Chronic angina - discharge; Variant angina - discharge; Angina pectoris - discharge; Accelerating angina - discharge; New-onset angina - discharge; Angina...
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Angina - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about angina and heart disease; Coronary artery disease - what to ask your doctor
Self-Care Instructions
Angina - when you have chest pain
Acute coronary syndrome - chest pain; Coronary artery disease - chest pain; CAD - chest pain; Coronary heart disease - chest pain; ACS - chest pain; Heart attack - chest pain; Myocardial infarction - chest...
Discharge Instructions
Angioplasty and stent - heart - discharge
Drug-eluting stents - discharge; PCI - discharge; Percutaneous coronary intervention - discharge; Balloon angioplasty - discharge; Coronary angioplasty - discharge; Coronary artery angioplasty - discharge...
Surgery
Angioplasty and stent placement - carotid artery
The blood vessels that bring blood to your brain and face are called the carotid arteries. You have a carotid artery on each side of your neck. The blood flow in this artery can become partly or totally...
Discharge Instructions
Angioplasty and stent placement - carotid artery - discharge
Carotid angioplasty and stenting - discharge; CAS - discharge; Angioplasty of the carotid artery - discharge
Surgery
Angioplasty and stent placement - heart
Angioplasty is a procedure to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. These blood vessels are called the coronary arteries. A coronary artery stent is a small, metal mesh...
Diseases & Conditions
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a heart defect. The left coronary artery (LCA), which carries blood to the heart muscle, begins from the pulmonary artery instead of...
Self-Care Instructions
Antiplatelet medicines - P2Y12 inhibitors
Blood thinners - clopidogrel; Antiplatelet therapy - clopidogrel; Thienopyridines
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic arch syndrome
The aortic arch is the top part of the main artery carrying blood away from the heart. Aortic arch syndrome refers to a group of signs and symptoms associated with structural problems in the arteries that...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic dissection
Aortic dissection is a serious condition in which there is a tear in the wall of the major artery carrying blood out of the heart (aorta). As the tear extends along the wall of the aorta, blood can flow...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic regurgitation
Aortic regurgitation is a heart valve disease in which the aortic valve does not close tightly. This allows blood to flow from the aorta (the largest blood vessel) into the left ventricle (a chamber of...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortic stenosis
The aorta is the main artery that carries blood out of the heart to the rest of the body. Blood flows out of the heart and into the aorta through the aortic valve. In people with aortic stenosis, the aortic...
Surgery
Aortic valve surgery - minimally invasive
Blood flows out of your heart and into a large blood vessel called the aorta. The aortic valve separates the heart and aorta. The aortic valve opens so blood can flow out. It then closes to keep blood from...
Surgery
Aortic valve surgery - open
Blood flows out of your heart and into a large blood vessel called the aorta. The aortic valve separates the heart and aorta. The aortic valve opens so blood can flow out. It then closes to keep blood from...
Diseases & Conditions
Aortopulmonary window
Aortopulmonary window is a rare heart defect in which there is a hole connecting the major artery taking blood from the heart to the body (the aorta) and the one taking blood from the heart to the lungs...
Tests
Apolipoprotein B100
Apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100) is a protein that plays a role in moving cholesterol around your body. It is a form of low density lipoprotein (LDL). Variants in the gene that directs the body's production...
Tests
Apolipoprotein CII
Apolipoprotein CII (apoCII) is a protein found in large fat particles that the gastrointestinal tract absorbs. It is also found in very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), which is made up of mostly triglycerides...
Diseases & Conditions
Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is a disorder of the heart rate (pulse) or heart rhythm. The heart can beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly. heart rate An arrhythmia can be harmless, a sign...
Diseases & Conditions
Arterial embolism
Arterial embolism refers to a clot (embolus) that has come from another part of the body and causes a sudden interruption of blood flow to an organ or body part.
Tests
Arteriogram
An arteriogram is an imaging test that uses x-rays and a special dye to see inside the arteries. It can be used to view arteries in the heart, brain, kidney, and other parts of the body. Related tests include...
Self-Care Instructions
Aspirin and heart disease
Blood thinners - aspirin; Antiplatelet therapy - aspirin
Diseases & Conditions
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, sometimes called "hardening of the arteries," occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. These deposits are called plaques. Over time, these plaques...
Discharge Instructions
Atrial fibrillation - discharge
Auricular fibrillation - discharge; A-fib - discharge; AF - discharge; Afib - discharge
Diseases & Conditions
Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) and atrial flutter are common types of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) which affect the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. In atrial flutter, the heart beats too fast,...
Diseases & Conditions
Atrial myxoma
An atrial myxoma is a noncancerous tumor in the upper left or right side of the heart. It most often grows on the wall that separates the two sides of the heart. This wall is called the atrial septum.
Diseases & Conditions
Atrial septal defect (ASD)
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a heart defect that is present at birth (congenital). As a baby develops in the womb, a wall (septum) forms that divides the upper chamber into a left and right atrium. When...
Special Topics
Auscultation
Auscultation is listening to the sounds of the body during a physical examination. physical examination
Self-Care Instructions
Being active after your heart attack
Heart attack - activity; MI - activity; Myocardial infarction - activity; Cardiac rehabilitation - activity; ACS - activity; NSTEMI - activity; Acute coronary syndrome activity
Self-Care Instructions
Being active when you have heart disease
Heart disease - activity; CAD - activity; Coronary artery disease - activity; Angina - activity
Diseases & Conditions
Bicuspid aortic valve
A bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is an aortic valve that only has two leaflets, instead of three. The aortic valve regulates blood flow from the heart into the aorta. The aorta is the major blood vessel that...
Self-Care Instructions
Bile acid sequestrants for cholesterol
Antilipemic agent; Bile acid resins; Colestipol (Colestid); Cholestyramine (Locholest, Prevalite, and Questran); Colesevelam (Welchol)
Special Topics
Blood pressure monitors for home
Your health care provider may ask you to keep track of your blood pressure at home. To do this, you will need to get home blood pressure monitor. The monitor you choose should be good quality and fit well...
Tests
Brain natriuretic peptide test
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test is a blood test that measures levels of the protein BNP that is made by your heart and blood vessels. BNP levels are higher than normal when you have heart failure.
Symptoms
Breathing difficulty - lying down
Breathing difficulty while lying down is an abnormal condition in which a person has a problem breathing normally when lying flat. The head must be raised by sitting or standing to be able to breathe deeply...
Self-Care Instructions
Butter, margarine, and cooking oils
Cholesterol - butter; Hyperlipidemia - butter; CAD - butter; Coronary artery disease - butter; Heart disease - butter; Prevention - butter; Cardiovascular disease - butter; Peripheral artery disease - butter...
Tests
CPK isoenzymes test
The creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes test measures the different forms of CPK in the blood. CPK is an enzyme found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle.
Tests
CT angiography – chest
CT angiography combines a CT scan with the injection of dye. This technique is able to create pictures of the blood vessels in the chest and upper abdomen. CT stands for computed tomography.
Surgery
Cardiac ablation procedures
Cardiac ablation is a procedure that is used to scar small areas in your heart that may be involved in your heart rhythm problems. This can prevent the abnormal electrical signals or rhythms from moving...
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiac amyloidosis
Cardiac amyloidosis is a disorder caused by deposits of an abnormal protein (amyloid) in the heart tissue. These deposits make it hard for the heart to work properly.
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiac arrest
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. When this happens, blood flow to the brain and the rest of the body also stops. Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. If it is not treated within...
Tests
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac catheterization involves passing a thin flexible tube (catheter) into the right or left side of the heart. The catheter is most often inserted from the groin or the arm.
Discharge Instructions
Cardiac catheterization - discharge
Catheterization - cardiac - discharge; Heart catheterization - discharge: Catheterization - cardiac; Heart catheterization; Angina - cardiac catheterization discharge; CAD - cardiac catheterization discharge...
Tests
Cardiac event monitors
A cardiac event monitor is a device that you control to record the electrical activity of your heart (ECG). This device is about the size of a pager. It records your heart rate and rhythm. Cardiac event...
Self-Care Instructions
Cardiac rehabilitation
Cardiac rehab; Heart attack - cardiac rehab; Coronary heart disease - cardiac rehab; Coronary artery disease - cardiac rehab; Angina - cardiac rehab; Heart failure - cardiac rehab
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiac tamponade
Cardiac tamponade is pressure on the heart that occurs when blood or fluid builds up in the space between the heart muscle and the outer covering sac (pericardium) of the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiogenic shock
Cardiogenic shock takes place when the heart is unable to supply enough blood and oxygen to the organs of the body.
Diseases & Conditions
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is disease in which the heart muscle becomes weakened, stretched, or has another structural problem. It often contributes to the heart's inability to pump or function well. Many people with...
Special Topics
Cardioversion
Cardioversion is a method to bring an abnormal heart rhythm back to normal.
Discharge Instructions
Carotid artery surgery - discharge
Carotid endarterectomy - discharge; CEA - discharge; Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty - carotid artery - discharge; PTA - carotid artery - discharge
Diseases & Conditions
Chagas disease
Chagas disease is an illness caused by tiny parasites and spread by insects. The disease is common in South and Central America.
Symptoms
Chest pain
Chest pain is discomfort or pain that you feel anywhere along the front of your body between your neck and upper abdomen.
In-depth Report
Cholesterol - InDepth
An in-depth report on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Self-Care Instructions
Cholesterol - drug treatment
Hyperlipidemia - drug treatment; Hardening of the arteries - statin
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Cholesterol - what to ask your doctor
Hyperlipidemia - what to ask your doctor; What to ask your doctor about cholesterol
Self-Care Instructions
Cholesterol and lifestyle
Hyperlipidemia - cholesterol and lifestyle; CAD - cholesterol and lifestyle; Coronary artery disease - cholesterol and lifestyle; Heart disease - cholesterol and lifestyle; Prevention - cholesterol and...
Self-Care Instructions
Cholesterol testing and results
Cholesterol test results; LDL test results; VLDL test results; HDL test results; Coronary risk profile results; Hyperlipidemia-results; Lipid disorder test results; Heart disease - cholesterol results
Diseases & Conditions
Chylomicronemia syndrome
Chylomicronemia syndrome is a disorder in which the body does not break down fats (lipids) correctly. This causes fat particles called chylomicrons to build up in the blood. The disorder is passed down...
Discharge Instructions
Cleft lip and palate repair - discharge
Orofacial cleft - discharge; Craniofacial birth defect repair - discharge; Cheiloplasty - discharge; Cleft rhinoplasty - discharge; Palatoplasty - discharge; Tip rhinoplasty - discharge
Diseases & Conditions
Coarctation of the aorta
The aorta is a larger artery that carries blood from the heart to the vessels that supply the rest of the body with blood. If part of the aorta is narrowed, it is hard for blood to pass through the artery...
Surgery
Congenital heart defect - corrective surgery
Congenital heart defect corrective surgery fixes or treats a heart defect that a child is born with. A baby born with one or more heart defects has congenital heart disease. Surgery is needed if the defect...
Diseases & Conditions
Congenital heart disease
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a problem with the heart's structure and function that is present at birth.
Self-Care Instructions
Controlling your high blood pressure
Controlling hypertension
Self-Care Instructions
Cooking without salt
DASH diet; High blood pressure - DASH; Hypertension - DASH; Low-salt diet - DASH
Tests
Coronary angiography
Coronary angiography is a procedure that uses a special dye (contrast material) and x-rays to see how blood flows through the arteries in your heart.
In-depth Report
Coronary artery disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Diseases & Conditions
Coronary artery fistula
Coronary artery fistula is an abnormal connection between one of the coronary arteries and a heart chamber or another blood vessel. The coronary arteries are blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to...
Diseases & Conditions
Coronary artery spasm
The coronary arteries supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Coronary artery spasm is a brief, sudden narrowing of one of these arteries.
Diseases & Conditions
Coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease is a narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is also called coronary artery disease.
Tests
Creatine phosphokinase test
Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme in the body. It is found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. This article discusses the test to measure the amount of CPK in the blood. enzyme
Diseases & Conditions
Culture-negative endocarditis
Culture-negative endocarditis is an infection and inflammation of the lining of one or more heart valves, but in which no endocarditis-causing germs can be found in a routine blood culture. This is because...
Diseases & Conditions
Cyanotic heart disease
Cyanotic heart disease refers to a group of many different heart defects that are present at birth (congenital). They result in a low blood oxygen level. Cyanosis refers to a bluish color of the skin and...
Special Topics
DASH diet to lower high blood pressure
Diseases & Conditions
Dextrocardia
Dextrocardia is a condition in which the heart is pointed toward the right side of the chest. Normally, the heart points toward the left. The condition is present at birth (congenital).
Self-Care Instructions
Dietary fats explained
Cholesterol - dietary fats; Hyperlipidemia - dietary fats; CAD - dietary fats; Coronary artery disease - dietary fats; Heart disease - dietary fats; Prevention - dietary fats; Cardiovascular disease - dietary...
Diseases & Conditions
Digitalis toxicity
Digitalis is a medicine that is used to treat certain heart conditions. Digitalis toxicity can be a side effect of digitalis therapy. It may occur when you take too much of the drug at one time. It can...
Tests
Digoxin test
A digoxin test checks how much digoxin you have in your blood. Digoxin is a type of medicine called a cardiac glycoside. It is used to treat certain heart problems, although much less often than in the...
Diseases & Conditions
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is disease in which the heart muscle becomes weakened, stretched, or has another structural problem. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged...
Diseases & Conditions
Double aortic arch
Double aortic arch is an abnormal formation of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It is a congenital problem, which means that it is present at birth...
Diseases & Conditions
Double inlet left ventricle
Double inlet left ventricle (DILV) is a heart defect that is present from birth (congenital). It affects the valves and chambers of the heart. Babies born with this condition have only one working pumping...
Diseases & Conditions
Double outlet right ventricle
Double outlet right ventricle (DORV) is a heart disease that is present from birth (congenital). The aorta connects to the right ventricle (RV, the chamber of the heart that pumps oxygen-poor blood to the...
Diseases & Conditions
Ebstein anomaly
Ebstein anomaly is a rare heart defect in which parts of the tricuspid valve are abnormal. The tricuspid valve separates the right lower heart chamber (right ventricle) from the right upper heart chamber...
Tests
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. The picture and information it produces is more detailed than a standard x-ray image. An echocardiogram does not expose...
Tests
Echocardiogram - children
An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. It is used with children to help diagnose defects of the heart that are present at birth (congenital). The picture is more...
Tests
Ecocardiografía de esfuerzo
Es un examen en el que se utilizan imágenes por ultrasonido para mostrar qué tan bien está funcionando el miocardio para bombear sangre al cuerpo mientras hace ejercicio en un entorno controlado. En la...
Diseases & Conditions
Ectopic heartbeat
Ectopic heartbeats are changes in a heartbeat that is otherwise normal. These changes lead to extra or skipped heartbeats. There is often not a clear cause for these changes. They are common. The two most...
Diseases & Conditions
Eisenmenger syndrome
Eisenmenger syndrome is a condition that affects blood flow from the heart to the lungs in some people who were born with structural problems of the heart.
Tests
Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Endocardial cushion defect
Endocardial cushion defect (ECD) is an abnormal heart condition. The walls separating all four chambers of the heart are poorly formed or absent. Also, the valves separating the upper and lower chambers...
Diseases & Conditions
Endocarditis
Endocarditis is inflammation of the inside lining of the heart chambers and heart valves (endocardium). It is caused by a bacterial or, rarely, a fungal infection.
Diseases & Conditions
Endocarditis - children
The inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves is called the endocardium. Endocarditis occurs when this tissue becomes swollen or inflamed, most often due to infection of one of the heart valves...
Tests
Exercise stress test
An exercise stress test is used to measure the effect of exercise on your heart.
Special Topics
Facts about monounsaturated fats
Monounsaturated fatty acid; MUFA; Oleic acid; Cholesterol - monounsaturated fat; Atherosclerosis - monounsaturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - monounsaturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - monounsaturated...
Special Topics
Facts about polyunsaturated fats
Polyunsaturated fatty acid; PUFA; Cholesterol - polyunsaturated fat; Atherosclerosis - polyunsaturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - polyunsaturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - polyunsaturated fat; Hypercholesterolemia...
Special Topics
Facts about saturated fats
Cholesterol - saturated fat; Atherosclerosis - saturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - saturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - saturated fat; Hypercholesterolemia - saturated fat; Coronary artery disease - saturated...
Special Topics
Facts about trans fats
Trans fatty acids; Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs); Cholesterol - trans fats; Hyperlipidemia - trans fats; Atherosclerosis - trans fat; Hardening of the arteries - trans fat; Hypercholesterolemia - trans...
Symptoms
Fainting
Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood flow to the brain. The episode most often lasts less than a couple of minutes and you usually recover from it quickly. The medical name for...
Diseases & Conditions
Familial combined hyperlipidemia
Familial combined hyperlipidemia is a disorder that is passed down through families. It causes high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. triglyceride
Diseases & Conditions
Familial dysbetalipoproteinemia
Familial dysbetalipoproteinemia is a disorder passed down through families. It causes high amounts of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Familial hypercholesterolemia
Familial hypercholesterolemia is a disorder that is passed down through families. It causes LDL (bad) cholesterol level to be very high. The condition begins at birth and can cause heart attacks at an early...
Diseases & Conditions
Familial hypertriglyceridemia
Familial hypertriglyceridemia is a common disorder passed down through families. It causes a higher-than-normal level of triglycerides (a type of fat) in a person's blood.
Self-Care Instructions
Fast food tips
Obesity - fast food; Weight loss - fast food; High blood pressure - fast food; Hypertension - fast food; Cholesterol - fast food; Hyperlipidemia - fast food
Tests
Fetal echocardiography
Fetal echocardiography is a test that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to evaluate the baby's heart for problems before birth. ultrasound
Special Topics
Fibrates
Antilipemic agent; Fenofibrate (Antara, Fenoglide, Lipofen, Tricor, and Triglide); Gemfibrozil (Lopid); Fenofibric acid (Trilipix); Hyperlipidemia - fibrates; Hardening of the arteries - fibrates; Cholesterol...
Tests
Fibrin degradation products blood test
Fibrin degradation products (FDPs) are the substances left behind when clots dissolve in the blood. A blood test can be done to measure these products.
Diseases & Conditions
Fibrinolysis - primary or secondary
Fibrinolysis is a normal body process. It prevents blood clots that occur naturally from growing and causing problems. Primary fibrinolysis refers to the normal breakdown of clots. Secondary fibrinolysis...
Special Topics
Give your heart a workout
Exercise - heart workout; CAD prevention - workout; Cardiovascular disease prevention - workout
Tests
HDL test
The high-density lipoprotein (HDL) test is a blood test to measure the amount of HDL cholesterol in your blood. HDL is a type of fat (lipid) in your blood. HDL is called "good" cholesterol because it helps...
Tests
Heart CT scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create detailed pictures of the heart and its blood vessels. This test is called a coronary calcium scan when it is...
Tests
Heart MRI
Heart magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging method that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the heart. It does not use radiation (x-rays). magnetic resonance imaging Single magnetic...
Tests
Heart PET scan
A heart positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that uses a radioactive substance called a tracer to look for disease or poor blood flow in the heart. Unlike magnetic resonance imaging...
Special Topics
Heart and vascular services
The body's cardiovascular, or circulatory system, is made of the heart, blood, and blood vessels (arteries and veins). Heart and vascular services refers to the branch of medicine that focuses on the cardiovascular...
Diseases & Conditions
Heart attack
Most heart attacks are caused by a blood clot that blocks one of the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries bring blood and oxygen to the heart. If the blood flow is blocked, the heart is starved of oxygen...
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Heart attack - what to ask your provider
What to ask your provider about your heart attack
In-depth Report
Heart attack and acute coronary syndrome - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart attack.
Discharge Instructions
Heart attack – discharge
Myocardial infarction - discharge; MI - discharge; Coronary event - discharge; Infarct - discharge; Acute coronary syndrome - discharge; ACS - discharge
Diseases & Conditions
Heart block
Heart block is a problem in the electrical signals in the heart. Normally, the heart beat starts in an area in the top chambers of the heart (atria). This area is the heart's pacemaker. The electrical signals...
Surgery
Heart bypass surgery
Heart bypass surgery creates a new route, called a bypass, for blood and oxygen to go around a blockage to reach your heart.
Discharge Instructions
Heart bypass surgery - discharge
Off-pump coronary artery bypass - discharge; OPCAB - discharge; Beating heart surgery - discharge; Bypass surgery - heart - discharge; CABG - discharge; Coronary artery bypass graft - discharge; Coronary...
Surgery
Heart bypass surgery - minimally invasive
Heart bypass surgery creates a new route, called a bypass, for blood and oxygen to reach your heart. Minimally invasive coronary (heart) artery bypass can be done without stopping the heart. Therefore,...
Discharge Instructions
Heart bypass surgery - minimally invasive - discharge
Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass - discharge; MIDCAB - discharge; Robot assisted coronary artery bypass - discharge; RACAB - discharge; Keyhole heart surgery - discharge; Coronary artery...
Special Topics
Heart disease - resources
The following organizations are good resources for information on heart disease: American Heart Association -- www.heart.orgCenters for Disease Control and Prevention -- www.cdc.gov/heartdiseaseNational...
Self-Care Instructions
Heart disease - risk factors
Heart disease - prevention; CVD - risk factors; Cardiovascular disease - risk factors; Coronary artery disease - risk factors; CAD - risk factors
Self-Care Instructions
Heart disease and depression
Nutrition
Heart disease and diet
A healthy diet is an important factor in reducing your risk for heart disease.
Self-Care Instructions
Heart disease and intimacy
Special Topics
Heart disease and women
People often do not consider heart disease a woman's disease. Yet cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women over age 25. It kills nearly twice as many women in the United States as all types...
Diseases & Conditions
Heart failure
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body efficiently. This causes symptoms to occur throughout the body.
In-depth Report
Heart failure - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart failure.
Discharge Instructions
Heart failure - discharge
Congestive heart failure - discharge; CHF - discharge; HF - discharge
Self-Care Instructions
Heart failure - fluids and diuretics
HF - fluids and diuretics; CHF - ICD discharge; Cardiomyopathy - ICD discharge
Self-Care Instructions
Heart failure - home monitoring
HF - home monitoring; CHF - home monitoring; Cardiomyopathy - home monitoring
Discharge Instructions
Heart failure - medicines
CHF - medicines; Congestive heart failure - medicines; Cardiomyopathy - medicines; HF - medicines
Discharge Instructions
Heart failure - palliative care
CHF - palliative; Congestive heart failure - palliative; Cardiomyopathy - palliative; HF - palliative; Cardiac cachexia; End-of-life-heart failure
Discharge Instructions
Heart failure - surgeries and devices
CHF - surgery; Congestive heart failure - surgery; Cardiomyopathy - surgery; HF - surgery; Intra-aortic balloon pumps - heart failure; IABP - heart failure; Catheter based assist devices - heart failure
Discharge Instructions
Heart failure - tests
CHF - tests; Congestive heart failure - tests; Cardiomyopathy - tests; HF - tests
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Heart failure - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about heart failure; HF - what to ask your doctor
Diseases & Conditions
Heart failure in children
Heart failure is a condition that results when the heart is no longer able to effectively pump oxygen-rich blood to meet the oxygen needs of the body's tissues and organs. Heart failure can occur when...
Self-Care Instructions
Heart failure in children - home care
Congestive heart failure (CHF) - home monitoring for children; Cor pulmonale - home monitoring for children; Cardiomyopathy - heart failure home monitoring for children
Symptoms
Heart murmurs
A heart murmur is a blowing, whooshing, or rasping sound heard during a heartbeat. The sound is caused by turbulent (rough) blood flow through the heart valves or near the heart.
Surgery
Heart pacemaker
A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device. This device senses when your heart is beating too slowly. It sends a signal to your heart that makes your heart beat at the correct pace. too slowly
Discharge Instructions
Heart pacemaker - discharge
Cardiac pacemaker implantation - discharge; Artificial pacemaker - discharge; Permanent pacemaker - discharge; Internal pacemaker - discharge; Cardiac resynchronization therapy - discharge; CRT - discharge...
Symptoms
Heart palpitations
Palpitations are feelings or sensations that your heart is pounding or racing. They can be felt in your chest, throat, or neck. You may: Have an unpleasant awareness of your own heartbeatFeel like your...
Surgery
Heart transplant
A heart transplant is surgery to remove a damaged or diseased heart and replace it with a healthy donor heart.
Surgery
Heart valve surgery
Heart valve surgery is used to repair or replace diseased heart valves. Blood that flows between different chambers of your heart must flow through a heart valve. Blood that flows out of your heart into...
Discharge Instructions
Heart valve surgery - discharge
Aortic valve replacement - discharge; Aortic valvuloplasty - discharge; Aortic valve repair - discharge; Replacement - aortic valve - discharge; Repair - aortic valve - discharge; Ring annuloplasty - discharge...
In-depth Report
Heart-healthy diet - InDepth
An in-depth report on how to build the best diet for your heart's health.
Diseases & Conditions
High blood cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that your body needs to work properly. Too much bad cholesterol in your blood can increase your chance of getting heart disease, stroke, and other problems. heart...
In-depth Report
High blood pressure - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of high blood pressure.
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure - children
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood to your body. High blood pressure (hypertension) is an increase in this force. This article...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure - medicine-related
Drug-induced hypertension is high blood pressure caused by a chemical substance or medicine. high blood pressure
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
High blood pressure - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about high blood pressure; Hypertension - what to ask your doctor
Special Topics
High blood pressure and diet
Making changes to your diet is a proven way to help control high blood pressure. These changes can also help you lose weight and lower your chance of heart disease and stroke. high blood pressure Your health...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure in adults – hypertension
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood to your body. Hypertension is the medical term used to describe high blood pressure. Untreated...
Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure in infants
High blood pressure (hypertension) is an increase in the force of blood against the arteries in the body. This article focuses on high blood pressure in infants.
Special Topics
High blood pressure medications
Treating high blood pressure will help prevent problems such as heart disease, stroke, loss of eyesight, chronic kidney disease, and other blood vessel diseases. high blood pressure You may need to take...
Diseases & Conditions
High cholesterol - children
Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that the body needs to work properly. There are many types of cholesterol. The ones talked about most are: Total cholesterol - all the cholesterols combinedHigh...
Diseases & Conditions
High potassium level
High potassium level is a problem in which the amount of potassium in the blood is higher than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyperkalemia.
Tests
His bundle electrography
His bundle electrography is a test that measures electrical activity in a part of the heart that carries the signals that control the time between heartbeats (contractions).
Tests
Holter monitor (24h)
A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart's rhythms. The monitor is worn for 24 to 48 hours during normal activity.
Self-Care Instructions
How to read food labels
Nutrition - reading food labels; Diabetes - reading food labels; Hypertension - reading food labels; Fats - reading food labels; Cholesterol - reading food labels; Weight loss - reading food labels; Obesity...
Special Topics
How to take statins
Antilipemic Agent; HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors; Atorvastatin (Lipitor); Simvastatin (Zocor); Lovastatin (Mevacor, Altoprev); Pitavastatin (Livalo, Zypitamag); Pravastatin (Pravachol); Rosuvastatin (Crestor...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypertensive heart disease
Hypertensive heart disease refers to heart problems that occur because of high blood pressure that is present over a long time.
Diseases & Conditions
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes thick. Sometimes, only one part of the heart is thicker than the other parts. The thickening can make it harder for blood...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome occurs when parts of the left side of the heart (mitral valve, left ventricle, aortic valve, and aorta) do not develop completely. The condition is present at birth (congenital...
Discharge Instructions
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator - discharge
ICD - discharge; Defibrillation - discharge; Arrhythmia - ICD discharge; Abnormal heart rhythm - ICD discharge; Ventricular fibrillation - ICD discharge; VF - ICD discharge; V Fib - ICD discharge
Surgery
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a device that detects a life-threatening, rapid heartbeat. This abnormal heartbeat is called an arrhythmia. If it occurs, the ICD quickly sends an electrical...
Tests
Intracardiac electrophysiology study (EPS)
Intracardiac electrophysiology study (EPS) is a test to look at how well the heart's electrical signals are working. It is used to evaluate abnormal heartbeats or heart rhythms. heart rhythms
Tests
LDL test
The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) test is a blood test to measure the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood. LDL is a type of fat (lipid) in your blood. LDL is called "bad" cholesterol because it can...
Tests
Lactic acid test
Lactic acid is mainly produced in muscle cells and red blood cells. It forms when the body breaks down carbohydrates to use for energy when oxygen levels are low. Times when your body's oxygen level might...
Tests
Left heart catheterization
Left heart catheterization is the passage of a thin flexible tube (catheter) into the left side of the heart. It is done to diagnose or treat certain heart problems.
Tests
Left heart ventricular angiography
Left heart ventricular angiography is a procedure to look at the left-sided heart chambers and the function of the left-sided valves. It is sometimes combined with coronary angiography.
Tests
Lipid profile test
Lipids are fatty, wax-like substances found in the body. Your body needs lipids for proper body functions, growth, and energy. Two important types of lipids found in the blood are cholesterol and triglycerides...
Tests
Lipoprotein-a
Lipoproteins are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. proteins A blood test can be done to measure a specific type of lipoprotein called lipoprotein...
Self-Care Instructions
Living with heart disease and angina
Coronary artery disease - living with; CAD - living with; Chest pain - living with
Self-Care Instructions
Low-salt diet
Low-sodium diet; Salt restriction
Diseases & Conditions
Marfan syndrome
Marfan syndrome is a disorder of connective tissue. This is the tissue that strengthens the body's structures. Disorders of connective tissue affect the skeletal system, cardiovascular system, eyes, and...
Self-Care Instructions
Mediterranean diet
Diseases & Conditions
Mitral stenosis
Mitral stenosis is a disorder in which the mitral valve does not fully open. This restricts the flow of blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Mitral valve prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse is a heart problem involving the mitral valve, which separates the upper and lower chambers of the left side of the heart. In this condition, the valve does not close normally.
Diseases & Conditions
Mitral valve regurgitation
Mitral regurgitation is a disorder in which the mitral valve on the left side of the heart does not close properly. Regurgitation means leaking from a valve that does not close all the way.
Surgery
Mitral valve surgery - minimally invasive
Mitral valve surgery is surgery to either repair or replace the mitral valve in your heart. Blood flows from the lungs and enters a pumping chamber of the heart called the left atrium. The blood then flows...
Surgery
Mitral valve surgery - open
Mitral valve surgery is used to repair or replace the mitral valve in your heart. Blood flows between the different chambers in the heart through valves that connect the chambers. One of these is the mitral...
Diseases & Conditions
Multifocal atrial tachycardia
Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is a rapid heart rate. It occurs when too many signals (electrical impulses) are sent from the upper heart (atria) to the lower heart (ventricles). rapid heart rate
Tests
Myocardial biopsy
Myocardial biopsy is the removal of a small piece of heart muscle for examination.
Diseases & Conditions
Myocarditis
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. The condition is called pediatric myocarditis when it occurs in children. pediatric myocarditis
Diseases & Conditions
Myocarditis - pediatric
Pediatric myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle in an infant or young child.
Special Topics
Niacin for cholesterol
Antilipemic agent; Vitamin B3; Nicotinic acid; Niaspan; Niacor; Hyperlipidemia - niacin; Hardening of the arteries - niacin; Cholesterol - niacin; Hypercholesterolemia - niacin; Dyslipidemia - niacin
Tests
Nuclear stress test
Nuclear stress test is an imaging method that uses radioactive material to show how well blood flows into the heart muscle, both at rest and during activity.
Tests
Nuclear ventriculography
Nuclear ventriculography is a test that uses radioactive materials called tracers to show the heart chambers. The procedure is noninvasive. The instruments do not directly touch the heart. noninvasive
Special Topics
Omega-3 fats - Good for your heart
Cholesterol - omega-3s; Atherosclerosis - omega-3s; Hardening of the arteries - omega-3s; Coronary artery disease - omega-3s; Heart disease - omega-3s
Surgery
Open heart surgery
Heart surgery is any surgery done on the heart muscle, valves, arteries, or the aorta and other large arteries connected to the heart. The term "open heart surgery" means that you are connected to a heart...
Diseases & Conditions
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is episodes of a rapid heart rate that start in a part of the heart above the ventricles. "Paroxysmal" means from time to time. rapid heart rate
Diseases & Conditions
Patent ductus arteriosus
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a condition in which the ductus arteriosus does not close. The word "patent" means open. The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that allows blood to go around the baby...
Diseases & Conditions
Patent foramen ovale
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth, but most often closes shortly after being born. PFO is what...
Surgery
Pediatric heart surgery
Heart surgery in children is done to repair heart defects a child is born with (congenital heart defects) and heart diseases a child gets after birth that need surgery. The surgery is needed for the child...
Discharge Instructions
Pediatric heart surgery - discharge
Congenital heart surgery - discharge; Patent ductus arteriosus ligation - discharge; Hypoplastic left heart repair - discharge; Tetralogy of Fallot repair - discharge; Coarctation of the aorta repair -...
Tests
Pericardial fluid Gram stain
Pericardial fluid Gram stain is a method of staining a sample of fluid taken from the pericardium to diagnose a bacterial infection. This is the sac surrounding the heart. The Gram stain method is one of...
Tests
Pericardial fluid culture
Pericardial fluid culture is a test performed on a sample of fluid from the sac surrounding the heart. It is done to identify organisms that cause infection. Pericardial fluid Gram stain is a related topic...
Tests
Pericardiocentesis
Pericardiocentesis is a procedure that uses a needle to remove fluid from the pericardial sac. This is the tissue that surrounds the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Pericarditis
Pericarditis is a condition in which the sac-like covering around the heart (pericardium) becomes inflamed.
Diseases & Conditions
Pericarditis - after heart attack
Pericarditis is inflammation and swelling of the covering of the heart (pericardium). It can occur in the days or weeks following a heart attack. heart attack
Diseases & Conditions
Pericarditis - constrictive
Constrictive pericarditis is a process in which the sac-like covering of the heart (the pericardium) becomes thickened and scarred. Related conditions include: Bacterial pericarditisPericarditisPericarditis...
Diseases & Conditions
Peripartum cardiomyopathy
Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare disorder in which a pregnant woman's heart becomes weakened and enlarged. It develops during the last month of pregnancy, or within 5 months after the baby is born.
Discharge Instructions
Peripheral artery bypass - leg - discharge
Aortobifemoral bypass - discharge; Femoropopliteal - discharge; Femoral popliteal - discharge; Aorta-bifemoral bypass - discharge; Axillo-bifemoral bypass - discharge; Ilio-bifemoral bypass - discharge
Tests
Pharmacogenetic testing
Pharmacogenetic testing provides information about your genes and how they control your response to certain medicines. Your genes can affect the desired result of a drug. Your provider can use the information...
Special Topics
Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genes affect the way medicines work in a person. Your health care provider can use the information from pharmacogenetic testing to prescribe medicines that will work...
Nutrition
Potassium in diet
Potassium is a mineral that your body needs to work properly. It is a type of electrolyte. electrolyte
Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary atresia
Pulmonary atresia is a form of heart disease in which the pulmonary valve does not form properly. It is present from birth (congenital heart disease). The pulmonary valve is an opening on the right side...
Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary edema
Pulmonary edema is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the lungs. This buildup of fluid leads to shortness of breath.
Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonic valve stenosis
Pulmonic stenosis is a heart valve disorder that involves the pulmonary valve. This is the valve separating the right ventricle (one of the chambers in the heart) and the pulmonary artery. The pulmonary...
Symptoms
Pulse - bounding
A bounding pulse is a strong throbbing felt over one of the arteries in the body. It is due to a forceful heartbeat. pulse
Diseases & Conditions
Restrictive cardiomyopathy
Restrictive cardiomyopathy refers to a set of changes in how the heart muscle functions. These changes cause the heart to fill poorly (more common) or squeeze poorly (less common). Sometimes, both problems...
Tests
Right heart ventricular angiography
Right heart ventricular angiography is a test that images the right chambers (atrium and ventricle) of the heart.
Diseases & Conditions
Sick sinus syndrome
Normally, the heartbeat starts in an area in the top chambers of the heart (atria). This area is the heart's pacemaker. It is called the sinoatrial node, sinus node or SA node. Its role is to keep the heart...
Self-Care Instructions
Simple, heart-smart substitutions
Coronary artery disease - heart smart substitutions; Atherosclerosis - heart smart substitutions; Cholesterol - heart smart substitutions; Coronary heart disease - heart smart substitutions; Healthy diet...
Nutrition
Sodium in diet
Sodium is an element that the body needs to work properly. Salt contains sodium.
Diseases & Conditions
Stable angina
Stable angina is chest pain or discomfort that most often occurs with activity or emotional stress. Angina is due to poor blood flow through the blood vessels in the heart called the coronary arteries....
Special Topics
Stress and your heart
Coronary heart disease - stress; Coronary artery disease - stress
Tests
Stress echocardiography
Stress echocardiography is a test that uses ultrasound imaging to show how well your heart muscle is working to pump blood to your body while you exercise in a controlled setting. It is most often used...
Tests
Swan-Ganz - right heart catheterization
Swan-Ganz catheterization (also called right heart catheterization or pulmonary artery catheterization) is the passing of a thin tube (catheter) into the right side of the heart and the arteries leading...
Self-Care Instructions
Taking warfarin (Coumadin)
Anticoagulant care; Blood-thinner care
Diseases & Conditions
Tetralogy of Fallot
Tetralogy of Fallot is a type of congenital heart defect. Congenital means that it is present at birth.
Special Topics
Thrombolytic drugs for heart attack
Small blood vessels called coronary arteries supply oxygen carrying blood to the heart muscle. A heart attack can occur if a blood clot stops the flow of blood through one of these arteries. Unstable angina...
Special Topics
Thrombolytic therapy
Thrombolytic therapy is the use of medicines to break up or dissolve blood clots, which are the main cause of both heart attacks and stroke.
Diseases & Conditions
Thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis is swelling (inflammation) of a vein. A blood clot (thrombus) in the vein is the most common cause of this swelling. blood clot
Diseases & Conditions
Total anomalous pulmonary venous return
Total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) is a heart disease in which the 4 veins that take blood from the lungs to the heart do not attach normally to the left atrium (left upper chamber of the heart...
Tests
Total cholesterol
Total cholesterol is a blood test to measure all types of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a fatty, wax-like substance found in all parts of the body. The cholesterol test is often done as part...
Surgery
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a procedure used to replace the aortic valve without opening the chest. It is used to treat adults who aren't healthy enough for regular valve surgery. The...
Diseases & Conditions
Transposition of the great arteries
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a heart defect that occurs from birth (congenital). The two major arteries that carry blood away from the heart -- the aorta and the pulmonary artery -- are...
Diseases & Conditions
Tricuspid atresia
Tricuspid atresia is a type of heart disease that is present at birth (congenital heart disease), in which the tricuspid heart valve is missing or abnormally developed. The defect blocks blood flow from...
Diseases & Conditions
Tricuspid regurgitation
Blood that flows between different chambers of your heart must pass through a heart valve. These valves open up enough so that blood can flow through. They then close, keeping blood from flowing backward...
Tests
Triglyceride level
The triglyceride level is a blood test to measure the amount of triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat. Your body makes some triglycerides. Triglycerides also come from the food you...
Tests
Troponin test
A troponin test measures the levels of troponin T or troponin I proteins in the blood. These proteins are released when the heart muscle has been damaged, such as occurs with a heart attack. The more damage...
Special Topics
Understanding cardiovascular disease
Self-Care Instructions
Understanding the DASH diet
Hypertension - DASH diet; Blood-pressure - DASH diet
Diseases & Conditions
Unstable angina
Unstable angina is a condition in which your heart doesn't get enough blood flow and oxygen. It may lead to a heart attack. Angina is a type of chest discomfort due to poor blood flow through the blood...
Tests
VLDL test
VLDL stands for very low density lipoprotein. Lipoproteins are made up of cholesterol, triglycerides, and proteins. They move cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids (fats) around the body. cholesterol...
Diseases & Conditions
Vascular ring
Vascular ring is an abnormal formation of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It is a congenital problem, which means it is present at birth.
Diseases & Conditions
Venous insufficiency
Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins have problems sending blood from the legs back to the heart.
Surgery
Ventricular assist device
Ventricular assist devices (VADs) help your heart pump blood from one of the main pumping chambers to the rest of your body or to the other side of the heart. These pumps are implanted in your body. In...
Diseases & Conditions
Ventricular fibrillation
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a severely abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that is life threatening. arrhythmia
Diseases & Conditions
Ventricular septal defect
Ventricular septal defect is a hole in the wall that separates the right and left ventricles of the heart. Ventricular septal defect is one of the most common congenital (present from birth) heart defects...
Diseases & Conditions
Ventricular tachycardia
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heartbeat that starts in the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles).
Self-Care Instructions
Warning signs and symptoms of heart disease
Angina - heart disease warning signs; Chest pain - heart disease warning signs; Dyspnea - heart disease warning signs; Edema - heart disease warning signs; Palpitations - heart disease warning signs
Special Topics
Wine and heart health
Some studies have shown that adults who drink light to moderate amounts of alcohol may be less likely to develop heart disease than those who do not drink at all or are heavy drinkers. However, people who...
Diseases & Conditions
Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW)
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a condition in which there is an extra electrical pathway in the heart that leads to periods of rapid heart rate (tachycardia). tachycardia WPW syndrome is one of...