Heart disease is a leading cause of illness and death in the United States, but it’s not a single condition. It’s actually an umbrella term that includes a range of cardiovascular problems. Understanding the different types of heart disease is the first step in recognizing risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.
The Heart Smart Program at NJ Cardiovascular Institute is designed to help you take control of your heart health. From prevention to expert diagnosis and long-term heart disease management, we’re with you every step of the way.
Here’s more information about five of the most common types of heart disease and how we can help you manage them.
CAD is the most common type of heart disease. It occurs when plaque buildup — leading to a condition called atherosclerosis — narrows or blocks the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle.
These blockages limit blood flow and can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even a heart attack. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes.
Arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats that can make your heart beat too fast, too slow, or with an abnormal rhythm. Common arrhythmias include atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, and tachycardia.
While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can increase your risk of stroke or sudden cardiac arrest. Symptoms of arrhythmias can include palpitations, dizziness, and fainting.
Heart failure doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working, but it does mean your heart can’t pump blood as efficiently as it should. Heart failure is typically a result of other conditions like CAD or high blood pressure.
Inefficient blood flow can lead to fluid buildup in your lungs, legs, and other parts of your body. Common symptoms include fatigue, swelling, and difficulty breathing — especially during physical activity or when you’re lying down.
Your heart has four valves that keep blood flowing in the right direction. Valvular heart disease develops when one or more of these valves doesn’t open or close properly.
Common causes of valvular disease are stenosis (narrowing), regurgitation (leakage), or prolapse, and symptoms can range from mild fatigue to severe shortness of breath and heart palpitations.
Congenital heart disease refers to heart problems present at birth. Some are detected and treated early, while others may not show symptoms until adulthood. Congenital heart defects can affect your heart’s structure and function, and may require monitoring or surgery, depending on severity.
A heart disease diagnosis can be scary, but it doesn’t mean your quality of life has to suffer. Our Heart Smart Program is designed to provide personalized care and proactive management for people living with heart disease.
Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed or you’re looking to better control a chronic condition, our comprehensive approach focuses on prevention, education, and lifestyle support. We help you understand your risk factors, stay on top of your medications, and make heart-healthy lifestyle choices.
Through close monitoring and compassionate care, we’re here to empower you to take charge of your heart health. Call NJ Cardiovascular Institute at 201-866-7000 to schedule your first appointment or send us a message to learn more.
