Overview of Heart Diseases
Heart or cardiovascular diseases are a group of conditions related to the heart and major blood vessels. Early detection of the disease makes it easier to prescribe appropriate treatment. Heart disease can affect other tissues and body organs as well. Some common conditions include:
- Congenital heart disease: a condition where Birth defects of the heart that affect the normal development and functioning of the heart
- Coronary heart disease: a condition where Blood vessels leading to the heart are affected
- Cerebrovascular disease: a condition where Blood vessels leading to the brain are affected
- Deep-vein thrombosis: a condition where Blood clots in the legs decrease the blood flow to the heart
- Arrhythmia: Abnormal heart rhythms or pulses due to poor electrical conductivity in the heart
- Heart failure: Heart muscle problems can affect the relaxation and contraction of muscles, leading to pumping problems and fluid build-up.
- Aortic stenosis: a condition where narrowing of the aorta reduces the blood flow to the organs. Aorta is a major blood vessel that pumps blood out of the heart. Stenosis or narrowing may occur due to congenital problems or mineral and fat deposits.
An inactive lifestyle with behavioural changes is the main reason for cardiovascular problems.
What are the Symptoms of Heart Disease?
People with heart diseases may be symptomatic or asymptomatic (without physical symptoms). The symptoms may vary in every individual depending upon the type and severity of heart disease. Some prominent symptoms include:
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Heart murmurs
- Pain radiating into the neck, shoulder blades, and upper body
- Nausea
- Cold sweat
- Exhaustion
If you observe any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately and get medical help.
How is Heart Disease Caused?
Heart diseases can affect all age groups. The causes of heart disease can be due to heredity, age related factors, and lifestyle changes. Different heart diseases are caused by:
- Fewer nutrients and oxygen supply to the body and heart
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Blocked blood vessels
- Valve damage
Several genetic causes and lifestyle changes can also increase the risk of heart disease. These factors include:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Excessive smoking and drinking habits
- Dietary choices
- Obesity
- Chronic anxiety, stress, or depression
- Age factors
- Family medical history of heart diseases
Which Tests Can Diagnose Heart Disease?
Diagnosis of heart diseases can be done through various tests. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and conduct a physical examination. Some common diagnostic tests include:
- Blood test
- ECG (Electrocardiogram)
- Echocardiogram
- CT scan
- Stress test
- Cardiac catheterization
Of all these tests, blood tests, ECG, and CT scans are typically prescribed to diagnose heart diseases.
- The blood tests measure the levels of specific proteins and enzymes in the blood. Abnormal levels of certain proteins can indicate heart-related issues.
- An ECG is a test that records the electrical conductivity of the heart in the form of waves o a graph. It can be easily used to detect heart rhythm, poor heart muscle function, heart attacks, and abnormal heart chamber functioning. Several electrodes are attached to the chest, arms, and legs while conducting an ECG test.
- A cardiac CT scan uses X-rays and the advanced technology of intravenous contrast dye to get clear, detailed images of the internal heart condition along with the major blood vessels. CT scans can produce three-dimensional images of the heart, thereby making it easier to diagnose the hidden condition.
For those people who are old, pregnant, and toddlers, it is difficult to conduct a stress test. In such cases, the doctor usually prescribes blood tests, ECG, or CT scan as a diagnostic method.
What is the Cost of Diagnostic Tests?
The cost of a diagnostic test varies based on the type of test and the testing centre, whether private or government.
- The average cost of a blood test is typically around Rs. 1000/-.
- An ECG costs between Rs. 300/- to Rs. 700/- in private testing centres.
- A CT scan is quite costly, with an average cost of around Rs. 7000/- to 8000/-.
Based on the test reports, your cardiologist will discuss treatment plans for you. Along with timely medical treatment and medication, it is crucial to maintain an active lifestyle by indulging in healthy food and exercise. Medicines must not be stopped without consulting the doctor.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
