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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Heart Disease

Heart Disease

Provided by A.D.A.M.

Alternate Names : Cardiovascular Disorders

Definition

Heart disease is any disorder that affects the heart's ability to function normally. The most common cause of heart disease is narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart itself. This happens slowly over time. (See coronary artery disease.)

Some heart diseases can be present at birth (congenital heart diseases).

Other causes include the following:

  • Abnormal function of the heart valves
  • Abnormal electrical rhythm of the heart
  • Weakening of the heart's pumping function caused by infection or toxins

Various forms of heart disease include:

See also chest pain.

Pictures & Images

Heart, Section Through the Middle
Heart, Section Through the Middle

Heart, Front View
Heart, Front View

Coronary Artery Blockage
Coronary Artery Blockage

 
     See all Pictures & Images


Review Date : 2/27/2003
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review by Patrick Lam, M.D., Division of Cardiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. (11/07/2002)







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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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