Top 10 Types of Heart Disease You Should Know About
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Early detection and timely management can save lives, but for that, understanding the various types of heart disease is crucial. Whether it’s congenital conditions or those acquired over time, heart diseases affect people of all ages and lifestyles.
In this blog, Dr. Ankit Gupta, a trusted cardiologist in Jaipur, shares the top
you should know about, including the 4 types of heart disease most commonly encountered in clinical practice.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
This is the most common type of heart disease, caused by plaque buildup in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and long-term damage to heart muscles.
Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue.
- Heart Arrhythmias
These are irregular heartbeats caused by electrical signal dysfunction in the heart. Types include tachycardia (fast heartbeat), bradycardia (slow heartbeat), atrial fibrillation, and others.
Symptoms: Palpitations, dizziness, fainting, chest discomfort.
- Heart Failure (Congestive Heart Failure)
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. It doesn’t mean the heart has stopped, but rather that it’s functioning below normal levels.
Symptoms: Swelling in legs, breathlessness, rapid weight gain, and fatigue.
- Congenital Heart Disease
These are heart defects present at birth. Some are mild and may go unnoticed, while others require surgical correction early in life.
Examples: Atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and valve malformations.
- Valvular Heart Disease
This involves damage or dysfunction of one or more of the heart’s valves – aortic, mitral, pulmonary, or tricuspid – affecting blood flow.
Symptoms: Irregular heartbeat, swelling in legs, fatigue, chest pain.
- Cardiomyopathy
A condition where the heart muscle becomes weak, stiff, or enlarged. It can be genetic or caused by infections, alcohol abuse, or other medical conditions.
Types: Dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.
- Pericardial Disease (Pericarditis)
Inflammation of the pericardium – the fluid-filled sac around the heart. It can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or after a heart attack.
Symptoms: Sharp chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing.
- Aortic Disease and Aneurysms
Diseases affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (bulging of the aorta), can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated timely manner.
Symptoms: Often asymptomatic until rupture; may include back pain or a pulsating feeling in the abdomen.
- Rheumatic Heart Disease
A result of untreated rheumatic fever, this disease affects heart valves due to inflammation caused by streptococcal bacteria.
Symptoms: Breathlessness, chest pain, fatigue, swelling.
- Ischemic Heart Disease
Closely related to CAD, this condition refers to restricted blood flow to the heart muscles, commonly due to narrowed arteries. It can lead to angina or heart attacks.
What Are the 4 Types of Heart Disease Most Commonly Seen?
While there are many types of heart disease, the 4 types of heart disease most frequently encountered are:
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Heart Arrhythmias
- Heart Failure
- Congenital Heart Disease
Understanding these helps you recognise symptoms early and seek timely help.
When to See a Cardiologist?
If you experience any signs like chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or swelling in the legs, don’t ignore them. Consult a qualified cardiologist in Jaipur, like Dr. Ankit Gupta, for accurate diagnosis and expert treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Ankit Gupta?
Dr. Ankit Gupta is a highly experienced and compassionate cardiologist in Jaipur, known for his patient-centric approach and expertise in treating complex heart conditions. From preventive care to advanced cardiac interventions, he provides comprehensive heart care using the latest medical technology.
