Some of the risk factors can be modified through lifestyle changes and medical care, while other risk factors cannot be changed. The more risk factors you have, the greater your chances of developing heart disease.
- Arrhythmias are when the heart beats too quickly (up to four times the normal heart rate), too slowly (under 60 beats per minute) or erratically.
- Coronary artery disease is the narrowing or blockage of the heart’s coronary arteries caused by buildup of calcified plaque from cholesterol deposits.
- Sudden cardiac arrest happens when electrical impulses controlling the heart’s rhythm fail and the heart stops. Sudden cardiac arrest can occur without warning in otherwise healthy people with no history of heart disease.
- Cardiomyopathy is when the heart muscle becomes enlarged or its walls become thick or rigid, which can cause pumping problems and lead to arrhythmia or heart failure.
- Heart failure is a chronic heart condition in which the heart becomes weakened and no longer can pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body.
- Congestive heart failure is an advanced stage of heart disease characterized by fluid retention in the lungs, which can create difficulty breathing and produce a dry hacking cough or wheezing.
- Heart attack is when one or more coronary arteries leading to the heart become blocked, due to a blood clot or plaque buildup.
Experiencing heart problems or just concerned about your heart health?
Contact us today and we'll help you find the right specialist for you: 858-239-1716
- Treat more heart care patients in San Diego than any other health care system
- Offer exceptional quality care, often exceeding state averages in delivering evidence-based interventions
- Provide care at more locations across San Diego including four STEMI receiving center emergency rooms and multiple urgent care centers that can recognize even the smallest symptoms of a heart attack
- Use innovative research for the improvement of heart care including leading-edge studies for valve replacement and genomic testing for cholesterol-reducing drugs
- Offer advanced treatment options including robotic-assisted surgery
- Offer women with heart disease support and resources through the national WomenHeart program