Different Heart Diseases

Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for both men and women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The term "heart disease" is a general term used to describe any condition affecting the heart.

Coronary Heart Disease

• Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common type and the leading cause of death. Narrowing of your arteries due to plaque build-up causes this condition. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medication.

Congenital Heart Disease

• Congenital heart disease is present at birth and causes holes in your heart, damage to the valves and disruption of blood flow through your heart. People often need surgery to repair the abnormality.

Heart Failure

• Also known as congestive heart failure (CHF), heart failure means your heart cannot pump enough blood and oxygen to support your body's needs. The condition can cause shortness of breath, swelling and fatigue. There is no cure for CHF.

Cardiomyopathy

• Cardiomyopathy is inflammation of your heart muscle. It can cause irregular heartbeats and cardiac arrest. Treatment may involve medication, a pacemaker, an implanted defibrillator or, in severe cases, a heart transplant.

Rheumatic Heart Disease

• Rheumatic fever can cause rheumatic heart disease, which begins as strep throat, and increases the risk of later heart problems. Get treatment for strep throat right away to avoid developing rheumatic fever.